2013

Gonzales, M.; Rivera, J.A.; Garcia, J.J.; Markwell, S.

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1936-704X.2013.03168.x/epdf

Abstract: Courses in modeling often employ techniques based on mathematical or other computer-based quantitative models. In this article the authors update a range of social science qualitative and visualization methodologies presented to graduate students at an interdisciplinary modeling course on water issues related to climate change. In part the modeling course featured the coupling of natural and human system dynamics in the context of acequias, gravity flow irrigation systems in New Mexico that depend on winter snowpack for water supply in the form of spring run-off. While student teams were able to employ STELLA and other models, they were free to explore alternative approaches. As course instructors, we assigned a pilot case study that utilized qualitative methodologies along with visualization tools to model land use, built environment, geo-spatial, natural systems, and human settlement morphology. Our project described a social-ecological history of the Rio Chama, a tributary of the upper Rio Grande, where we applied a cross-disciplinary and inter-temporal approach on how the land and water resources of the Rio Chama have been developed over time. The case study highlights the social-ecological dimensions of regional water planning while demonstrating the potential of visualization methodologies as a unique approach to modeling distinct from models based on quantitative data.

Keywords: Rio Chama watershed, social-ecology, visualization methodologies