Comparing fire spread algorithms using equivalence testing and neutral landscape models

Brian R. Miranda; Brian R. R. Sturtevant; Jian Yang; Eric J. Gustafson

doi:10.1007/s10980-009-9343-y

Treesearch

Comparing fire spread algorithms using equivalence testing and neutral landscape models

Informally Refereed

Authors:

Brian R. Miranda, Brian R. R. Sturtevant, Jian Yang, Eric J. Gustafson

Year:

2009

Type:

Scientific Journal

Station:

Northern Research Station

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10980-009-9343-y

Source:

Landscape Ecology. 24: 587-598.

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Abstract

We demonstrate a method to evaluate the degree to which a meta-model approximates spatial disturbance processes represented by a more detailed model across a range of landscape conditions, using neutral landscapes and equivalence testing. We illustrate this approach by comparing burn patterns produced by a relatively simple fire spread algorithm with those generated by a more detailed fire behavior model from which the simpler algorithm was derived. Equivalence testing allows objective comparisons of the output of simple and complex models, to determine if the results are significantly similar. Neutral landscape models represent a range of landscape conditions that the model may encounter, allowing evaluation of the sensitivity and behavior of the model to different landscape compositions and configurations.

Keywords

equivalence, fire model, meta-model, neutral landscape, scale

Citation

Miranda, Brian R.; Sturtevant, Brian R.; Yang, Jian; Gustafson, Eric J. 2009. Comparing fire spread algorithms using equivalence testing and neutral landscape models. Landscape Ecology. 24: 587-598.