o Review results from similar natural or experimental ecosystems 



o Agree on suitable ecosystem structure for the model 



o Set standards for documenting model development and output 

 format 



c. Select Model to be Used 



o Reconfirm data requirements based on model structure 



o Determine nature and extent of proper operation of the model 



o Assure accuracy of model code 



o Compare model behavior with natural system behavior 



o Plan type and duration of research to be continued after decision 

 is made and implemented 



3. Model Output Interpretation 



a. Realize that Models Yield Information, Not Answers 

 o Interpretation of output is usually required 



o Dialogue continues during interpretation 



o Results should be presented in probabilistic terms if possible 



o Citizen involvement still desirable 



b. Evaluate Management Strategies in Light of Model Results 



c. Management Decision is Made 



4. Post Decision 



a. Modelers, Scientists, and Citizens Informed of Decision 



b. Citizen Reaction is Reviewed 



c. Model's "Track Record" is Established by Comparing Model Results 

 with Ecosystem Response 



o Data collection is continued through post-decision phase 



o Model is refined as necessary to improve its performance and 

 future usefulness for decisionmaking 



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