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Article
PEWI: An interactive web-based ecosystem service model for a broad public audience
Ecological Modelling
  • Carrie M. Chennault, Iowa State University
  • Robert M. Valek, Iowa State University
  • John C. Tyndall, Iowa State University
  • Lisa A. Schulte, Iowa State University
Document Type
Article
Publication Version
Published Version
Publication Date
9-1-2020
DOI
10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2020.109165
Abstract

We present an open source web application and ecosystem services model, People in Ecosystems/Watershed Integration (PEWI). PEWI integrates ecological models within an intuitive interface, allowing users to rapidly and dynamically evaluate how changes to agricultural land cover, use, and management affect ecosystem service outcomes. Users create and evaluate land-use and management scenarios in a virtual watershed across years and variable weather conditions using spatially explicit environmental patterns and dynamic feedback on 16 ecosystem service indicators. Indicators include agricultural production (i.e., crop and livestock) and environmental outcomes (i.e., water quality, habitat provision for biodiversity, soil quality, and carbon management). We based initial indicator equations on literature review, empirical data, existing models, and expert consultation, and finalized equations using a combination of testing, sensitivity analysis, and expert review. Model results allow users to explore nuanced tradeoffs and co-benefits between types and levels of agricultural products and other ecosystem services generated in a watershed. PEWI's niche as an ecological model is as a tool for engaging broad public audiences in understanding the science and management of landscapes and watersheds.

Comments

This article is published as Chennault, Carrie M., Robert M. Valek, John C. Tyndall, and Lisa A. Schulte. "PEWI: An interactive web-based ecosystem service model for a broad public audience." Ecological Modelling 431 (2020): 109165. doi:10.1016/j.ecolmodel.2020.109165.

Creative Commons License
Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International
Copyright Owner
The Authors
Language
en
File Format
application/pdf
Citation Information
Carrie M. Chennault, Robert M. Valek, John C. Tyndall and Lisa A. Schulte. "PEWI: An interactive web-based ecosystem service model for a broad public audience" Ecological Modelling Vol. 431 (2020) p. 109165
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/lisa_schulte/75/