A GIS-based expert system for pastoral agricultural development in Gansu Province, PR China

Abstract

This paper describes the research methods, basic design, contents and structure of database, model base, knowledge base and major functions of an expert system for Gansu Pastoral Agricultural Development (GPAD). The system, created at Lanzhou University, can show users the knowledge, experience, and techniques accumulated by pastoral agriculture specialists, both in theory and practice over many years. This is achieved using multimedia information (e.g., text, graphics, pictures, and video), as well as expert system, network, Geographic Information System (GIS) and remote sensing (RS) technologies. The system includes 19 spatial databases related to agricultural resources and ecological environments, and 540 images of grassland species and grassland landscapes. It is composed of five major modules including cultivation of productive or ecologically important grasses and legumes, adaptability of cultivated species, vegetation classification, diagnosis of the disease, and management strategy. The eight assistant modules include: spatial database query, knowledge base query, model base query, turf establishment advice, Global Positioning System (GPS) based information, China's pastoral agriculture database (used for consultation on suitability of cultivated grasses, legumes, and herbs for the whole of China), literature search, and system maintenance. The system provides the answers to users’ questions related to grassland management and pastoral agriculture development in the following main areas: (i) location of a particular area of interest, (ii) natural conditions and resource base of different areas, (iii) suitability of introduced and local grassland species for different geographic areas, and (iv) suitable management strategies for pastoral agriculture development. The expert system software is a useful tool for land managers, agricultural technicians, environmental specialists, teachers, students, policy makers, land administrators and for practical advice to land users. It has an important role in improving environmental conditions and pastoral agriculture in Gansu Province and western China. © 2004 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.