This is one of 280 summaries describing key outputs from the projects run by DFID’s 10-year Renewable Natural Resources Research Strategy (RNRRS) programmes.
Summary for Project title: R7991: Hydrological impacts of converting tropical montane cloud forest to pasture, with initial reference to northern Costa Rica.
A new highly detailed computer model of climate, land and water interactions is now available that covers the whole of the tropics. The model, known as FIESTA, can help us to better understand the effects of land use changes and climate change on hydrological systems and poor users downstream. FIESTA can be used to help decision makers apply watershed protection in appropriate areas, build water-related infrastructure and target efforts to get water to people who need it. The model is unique because it looks at areas as small as one square kilometre. This helps planners account for the very different hydrological effects that land use or climate change can have from area to area at a very local level—boosting our ability to develop sustainable land and water strategies.
The CD has the following information for this output: Description, Validation, Current Situation, Current Promotion, Impacts On Poverty, Environmental Impact. Attached PDF (13 pp.) taken from the CD.