Modeling Fire and Nutrient Flux in the Lake Tahoe Basin

Abstract

The cost, complexity, and uncertainty make ecosystem management difficult for many communities. Complex, dynamic models for adaptive management are under development for the Lake Tahoe Basin, where community interest is funneled by organizations and individuals into planning projects. The models illustrate the ecosystem dynamics so that citizens can participate intelligently in the decision-making process. A key indicator of ecosystem health is the clarity of Lake Tahoe, which has diminished by 33 feet in the last three decades. Ultimately, adaptive management will utilize these conceptual models to test, calibrate, and refine approaches to ecosystem management.