The future of habitat modeling and instream flow assessment techniques

Abstract

This paper examines emerging trends in applied instream flow assessment methods within the context of an ecologically based assessment framework, in light of the challenges imposed by the spatial and temporal domains of aquatic ecosystems. I will attempt to highlight what I consider to be the more promising technologies, modeling techniques and analysis approaches that represent workable tools to meet the needs of practical, applied instream flow assessments. To this end, I will touch on measurement techniques and technologies used to characterize the spatial domain of river systems, analysis tools for characterization of the hydrodynamic elements of rivers in both the spatial and temporal domains, and finally tools and approaches which integrate the biological elements at the individual, population and community levels. Much of my view of the future of habitat modeling remains an abstraction, in that integration of all the pieces has yet to be accomplished, field validation remains unproven, availability of an integrated analysis framework (i.e. computer software system) is not yet available, and a clear framework for selection and application of specific tools has not been developed. However, in presenting this particular view of the future, I hope to stimulate a broader collaborative effort between biologists, engineers and resource managers that continues to move the state-of-the-art forward. This effort should not consider the plurality of methods or analytical procedures as competing approaches, but rather as representing a tool-rich environment upon which researchers and practitioners can draw to provide scientifically based quantifications in support of management decisions which must protect and enhance our aquatic ecosystems. © 1998 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.