FAQ
This is not (yet) a comprehensive FAQ! Add your questions in the Discussion tab or (maybe better) post a question on the Forum.
Is this the only FAQ?
No, this is just a general FAQ for people unfamiliar with SELES. Eventually the Model Garden will have a seperate FAQ with more detailed questions about models. You can find a wealth of information in the Documentation pages and you can post questions to the Forum.
What is SELES?
The Spatially Explicit Landscape Event Simulator is a tool for constructing and running spatio-temporal landscape models that integrate natural and anthropogenic processes (e.g. fire, insect outbreaks, logging, succession) and track indicators (e.g. age class, habitat supply, timber volumes) over long time-frames and large spatial areas. SELES extends research in the fields of landscape ecology, simulation, and ecological modelling, and is useful as a tool for research on sustainable forest management, natural disturbance modelling and habitat modelling.
Who develops SELES?
SELES has one core developer: Dr. Andrew Fall (see Gowlland Technologies website [1]). There are also an increasing number of SELES model programmers and a large pool of SELES model users. Although the main simulation tools are coded by Andrew, there is a growing community of SELES users who either run SELES models and examine the output, or who have the skills to modify or build their own scenario files.
Andrew's vision for SELES: provide the tool for free and only ask that people share their experiences and release their models back into the community. Please consider giving time or other support to this virtual community: see Give Back to SELES.
What is the SELES approach?
Collaborative Modelling: Landscape management requires analysis of complex interactions among ecosystems and management regimes. Spatio-temporal simulation models are increasingly being used to assess potential long-term consequences of decisions on ecological, social and economic values. To be applied successfully in management situations, models must address appropriate questions, include relevant processes and interactions, be perceived as credible and involve people affected by decisions.
There are two requirements for success: (1) a tool that supports rapid model prototyping and modification, that makes a clear link between a conceptual and implemented model, and that has the ability to implement a wide range of model types; and (2) a framework or methodology for collaborative model building. Our approach has roots in adaptive management, computer-supported collaborative work, complexity theory, logic programming, computer simulation and landscape ecology.
What research has been done with SELES?
Go to our Case Studies section to learn more about past and present planning and research conducted with SELES. You can also get an overview of past work by browsing the Reference Lists.
Where can I get SELES and SELES models?
Go to the SELES Executables section for a link to the SELES download site. You can view synopses and download the model files for a wide variety of models in the Model Garden.
How can I get SELES documentation and training?
SELES documentation is available here. There are on-line tutorials available in the Tutorials Section.
I need help! Is there anyone out there?
Post your questions to our Forum. Information about discussion boards, mailing lists and contractors can be found on the Support page.