Proposed best modeling practices for assessing the effects of ecosystem restoration on fish

摘要: Abstract Large-scale aquatic ecosystem restoration is increasing and often controversial because of the economic costs involved, with focus controversies gravitating to modeling fish responses. We present a scheme for best practices in selecting, implementing, interpreting, reporting designed assess effects actions on populations food webs. Previous practice schemes that tended be more general are summarized, they form foundation our specifically tailored restoration. then 31-step scheme, supporting text narrative each step, which goes from understanding how results will used through post-auditing ensure approach effectively subsequent applications. also describe 13 concepts need considered parallel these steps. Examples include: life cycles strategies; variability uncertainty; nonequilibrium theory; biological, temporal, spatial scaling; explicit versus implicit representation processes; model validation. These not or explicitly stated casual treatment them leads mis-communication mis-understandings, turn, underlie resulting controversies. illustrate subset steps, their associated concepts, using three case studies Glen Canyon Dam Colorado River, wetlands coastal Louisiana, Everglades. Use proposed require investment additional time effort (and dollars) done effectively. argue such an well worth it than pay back long run effective efficient likely avoided legal proceedings.