Expert Systems for Management of Natural Resources

Management of natural resources embraces a whole range of subjects pertaining to both the concept of good management as well as to “natural resources.” The management part suggests elements of control, decision-making, execution of actions including both intervention and monitoring, as well as elements such as guidance and protection. Expert systems for management of natural resources date back to the origin of the expert system era itself. Ecological systems have emerged as archetypes of complex knowledge-based systems. Often dealing with difficult data fusion supported by remote sensing, they cover aspects of both local and global value. The Contouring Assistant knowledge base embodies years of gridding and mapping experience. As an expert system, it incorporates many of the standard features. The knowledge base built is a synthesis of expertise from many individuals.