Applications of a Dynamic Information Framework (DIF)

Representing river basins as "virtual river basins," as the composite product of information synthesis from multiple sources (observations, modles, records) represented not only as data but "visualizations," provides robust views into "earth system dynamics" that can be carried from the specialist to practioners and broader audiences. In this psirt, we developed the "Virtual Puget Sound," in the PRISM project at the University of Washington, as our initial "earth system module."

We are now building on this legacy to bring such modules to agencies and ministries in sensitive regions of the world, contributing to ther decision support process. To that goal, we are working with the World Bank, to  establish "Dynamic Information Frameworks" (DIF) in different regions. Projects include:

ZambeziDIF. The initial prototype was for the Zambezi River basin of east Africa, as part of a GEF project in Mozambique, to improve smallholder livlihoods. This project is now developing into an operational program in the Mozambique government.

DrukDIF is emerging in Bhutan, as part of the Sustainable Land Management Program in the Minitry of Agriculture, and addressing water resources issues with Hydromet and the Druk Green Power Corporation.

AralDIF, is modeling the Amu Darya and Syr Darya river basins of Central Asia, as a means of providing a "neutral and international data source platform for the Central Asia Energy and Water Development Program (CAEWDP).

ImisoziDIF is under development in Rwanda, for the Land Husbandry, Water Harvesting and Hillside Irrigation (LWH) Program, and extensions to cliamte and water resources.

Visual Mekong Basin (VMB). Building on our long-term work on the biogeochemisty and hydrology of the Mekong River, we are working with the Mekong River Commission (MRC), to develop the VMB as a means for conveying the multiple issues confronting the Mekong to broader audiences.

Florestas para Vida, is being initiated in the Espirito Santos state, of Brazil