Research

Visualizing Future Landscapes

Extension education is one way by which we can inform landowners, managers and policy makers about the latest technology for visualizing the extent and impacts of potential land use changes. One of the more promising geospatial educational tools involves the use of computer simulation models to create "alternative futures" for land. In this project, we proposed a foundation for a nationally-focused education program that would use of geospatial technologies in developing scenarios of future landscapes. Along the way, we also assessed the needs of Extension professionals and land use planners with regard to products that would be beneficial in their daily activities. Most professionals we surveyed felt that land use / land cover change projections would be of value for informing discussions regarding land use changes. As for how these projections would be made available, most thought that Internet-based access to maps, GIS databases, and printed atlases (by county) would be most beneficial. For more information on this project, please see http://vizlan.org.