The Forest manager who approached us with this project is concerned about just this issue. Like us, he sees computer-based analysis as a means of making management plans responsive to the constantly changing conditions of our National Forests. Don t take what you see to be the complete picture, however. The public is entitled to see this information, but its free and easy dissemination is correctly deemed unwise. Try these websites, or do a search.
Risk is costly in an abstract sense.
Being in a risky situation makes you uncomfortable, which has costs in terms of your health. Risk can also have dollar values. Imagine you are carrying an expensive vase across a frozen pond. Reducing uncertainty often means doing more research. Research costs time and money.