INTEGRATING A GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEM, A SCIENTIFIC VISUALIZATION SYSTEM, AND A PRECIPITATION MODEL1

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Investigating natural, potential, and human‐induced impacts on hydrologic systems commonly requires complex modeling with overlapping data requirements, plus massive amounts of one‐ to four‐dimensional data at multiple scales and formats. Given the complexity of most hydrologic studies, the requisite software infrastructure must incorporate many components including simulation modeling and spatial analysis with a flexible, intuitive display. Integrating geographic information systems (GIS) and scientific visualization systems (SVS) provides such an infrastructure. This paper describes an integrated system consisting of an orographic precipitation model, a GIS, and an SVS. The results of this study provide a basis for improving the understanding of hydro‐climatic processes in mountainous regions. An additional benefit of the integrated system, the value of which is often underestimated, is the improved ability to communicate model results, leading to a broader understanding of the model assumptions, sensitivities, and conclusions at a management level.