SDI Convergence - Global Spatial Data Infrastructure Association

A Prototype Metadata Tool for Land Use Change and Impact
Models – a Case Study in Regional Victoria, Australia
Stephen Williams, Christopher Pettit, David Hunter and Don Cherry
Department Primary industries, Victoria, Australia
{steve.williams, christopher.pettit, david.hunter, don.cherry}@dpi.vic.gov.au
Abstract
The use of models to infer or predict changes and impacts in natural resources and environmental
systems is a fundamental research activity around the world. A recent audit
of such modelling activities in eastern Australia uncovered a plethora of models in
use and a number of instances where models were implemented across various
groups and agencies. Often the active parties were unaware of each others research.
The preparation of data and development of model parameters to support deployment
of a model can take considerable effort and this can often be leveraged by subsequent
research. Additionally, previous modelling when accessible may reduce expenses and
inform by lessons of experience the selection of models and approaches to their future
implementation. Addressing these research needs is the subject of this article. A prototype
tool for storing and managing model metadata has been developed that extends
the utility of the more traditional model register allowing storage of details associated
with each instance of a model run. A non-standard approach has been taken to enable
efficient registration of the spatial context for model runs. The overall approach taken
has implications for the development of Spatial Data Infrastructures (SDI), model
automation and e-science.
Keywords: Metadata, spatial models, e-science, natural resource management.
1. INTRODUCTION
Since the advent of the computer in the 1940s there has been considerable research
into the development and application of spatial models for better understanding landscape
process, function and futures. In fact a Google TM search on the term ‘landscape
model’ resulted in 811,000 hits, and although some of these hits are extraneous, most
exemplify the proliferation of modelling endeavours. With such large numbers of models
developed and applied at a range of scales from local to global it should be possible
to search where such models have been applied and when, what datasets are required
to run a particular model, and who are the custodians and experts associated with such
a model. Much research on developing a spatial data infrastructure (SDI) has addressed
such issues for datasets. However, little research has been done with respect
to models and model outputs. This article describes such a prototype SDI interface developed,
known as the Model Information Knowledge Environment (MIKE).
MIKE began as a pencil sketch outlining a desired flow diagram showing how a client’s
query might lead through to data and model discovery. The early concept of MIKE focused
on addressing land management questions that could be informed by a spatial
modelling tool applied within the context of a landscape. A common global agricultural
goal shared by primary industries sector in Victoria focuses on the need for productive
and sustainable landscapes. A better understanding of landscape health and ecosystem
services in relation to potential agricultural industries can be acquired through the
application and development of a growing number of spatial modelling tools. Such
models can be used to assess and inform understanding of the incremental and cumu-
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