L-Range
L-Range is a localized version of the G-Range model and can represent generalized changes in vegetation
through time for very large or very small areas. Spatial data and a set of parameters that
describe plant growth in landscape units combine with computer
code describing ecological processes to represent soil nutrient and water dynamics, vegetation growth,
fire, and wild and domestic animal offtake. The model is spatial, representing an area determined by the
maps provided to the model. The landscape is divided into square cells. Those cells that are indicated as such
have ecosystem dynamics simulated. A graphical user interface allows
users to explore model output.
L-Range may be applied to an area and used directly. It is also well-suited to being edited to join with
other tools. For example, L-Range has been joined with the DECUMA, ANDES, and SPIRRAL agent-based models
that represent household decision making.
Our thanks to Dr. Bill Parton, Cindy Keough, and the many others who have contributed to the Century model,
for their permission to allow us to draw from Century. Many of the processes incorporated into L-Range are
either from Century, or inspired by that model. Inspiration was also drawn from the Savanna Modeling System,
authored by Dr. Michael Coughenour. Other components, especially those simualtion whole plant population changes,
are contributions specific to the L-Range family of models.
