ABSTRACT
Introduction Ecological simulation modelling allows scientists to gain insight into processes and mechanisms that cause change in our environment. Until recently, ecological simulations have been conducted on small geographic data sets, and output (e.g., carbon loss, evapotranspiration rates or water storage) has been examined through the use of tables, graphs and plots (Parton et ai, 1987; Schimel et a/.,
1990, 1991). With emerging Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies and the continued development of digital spatial data, another dimension of analysis is now possible and practical. Using GIS to provide spatially explicit input to ecological simulation models and to spatially analyse the output has been a powerful method to investigate ecological problems (Running et al., 1989; Burke et al., 1990; Raich et al., 1991). However, transfer of data between ecological models and GIS can be time consuming, and requires unique solutions for each model-GIS interaction. The need to standardize and automate this transfer of data and information between ecological models and GIS is the driving force behind the development of EcoVision.
