What is a conceptual model?
To put it simply, a conceptual model tells the story of an ecosystem. What are the important elements, and how do they interact? For example, a model of an estuarine watershed may include the fish, birds, and plants in the system; land use such as agriculture, cities, or industrial areas; human activities such as fishing or boating; and natural phenomena such as regular flood events.
Why do I need one?
In the planning process, a conceptual model provides a foundation for understanding and communicating both how the system works and how it might change under different management scenarios. Projects may be complicated, with broad implications to many stakeholders; conceptual models provide a way to organize ideas and get everyone on the same page.
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