Computer-aided Decision Making and Information Accessing in Pest Management Systems, with Emphasis on the Southern Pine Beetle (Coleoptera: Scolytidae)

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Decision making in integrated pest management research programs is a complex procedure involving the use of mathematical models and rapidly proliferating information. The effectiveness of an IPM decision maker is a function of how well he can structure available knowledge. A problem-solving structure must be developed that will consider the biological system within the constraints of economic resources. A computer-based technology called “decision support systems” has recently been developed to address this need. Concepts of decision support and how decision support systems differ from other information management systems are discussed. A decision support system for the management of Dendroctonus frontalis Zimmerman problems is described. Major emphasis is placed on two aspects of the system: the front end program called FERRET, which analyzes a user’s question and provides summaries of pertinent model technology and information; and the Executive Program, which provides decision support by scheduling selected models, matching input-output requirements for models, providing input from a data base or soliciting inputs from the user, running the models in proper order, selecting requested or appropriate output, formatting the output, generating a report for the user, and requesting a decision on further evaluation.