Agent-based modeling means that different cells within the simulation can be set differently, rather than using the same set of parameters for each section. For example, a cell situated near a roadway may readily accept growth within it, while a cell along the watershed may not allow any growth. Meanwhile, the fine resolution allows users to track changes in the area in units about as small as the infield of a baseball diamond. So far the model has focused on population changes and how they might occur, according to Tim Harbaugh, director of the Kane County Department of Environmental Management. In the future, however, the impact of population growth on water quality in the area will also be considered.
Cars drip oil and farms have fertilizer runoff.
As the makeup of the area changes, so will the environmental effects. These models are educational tools. I can go in and talk to local officials and show them what is going on. All rights reserved. Do not copy or redistribute in any form.