Abstract
AbstractRecent debate over the scope of the U.S. Clean Water Act underscores the need to develop a robust body of scientific work that defines the connectivity between freshwater systems and people. Coupled natural and human systems (CNHS) modeling is one tool that can be used to study the complex, reciprocal linkages between human actions and ecosystem processes. Well‐developed CNHS models exist at a conceptual level, but the mapping of these system representations in practice is limited in capturing these feedbacks. This article presents a paired conceptual–empirical methodology for functionally capturing feedbacks between human and natural systems in freshwater lake catchments, from human actions to the ecosystem and from the ecosystem back to human actions. We address extant challenges in CNHS modeling, which arise from differences in disciplinary approach, model structure, and spatiotemporal resolution, to connect a suite of models. In doing so, we create an integrated, multi‐disciplinary tool that captures diverse processes that operate at multiple scales, including land‐management decision‐making, hydrologic‐solute transport, aquatic nutrient cycling, and civic engagement. In this article, we build on this novel framework to advance cross‐disciplinary dialogue to move CNHS lake‐catchment modeling in a systematic direction and, ultimately, provide a foundation for smart decision‐making and policy.
Highlights
Developing sound environmental policy requires an understanding of the complex interrelationships between human behavior and natural systems
We use “model” to refer to discipline-specific representations of system components. With this pairing of concept and practice, we develop an integrated and multi-disciplinary foundation for future Coupled natural and human systems (CNHS) research. We develop this tool in the context of lake catchments, which exemplify a rich set of linkages between human and freshwater systems
We present an innovative framework for understanding and modeling human interactions and responses within the dynamic natural environment of freshwater lake catchments
Summary
From concept to practice to policy: modeling coupled natural and human systems in lake catchments.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have