Abstract:Deeision making in eatehments is inherently complex and spatial in nature. This chapter examines the nature ofthis complexity, proposes criteria for good decision making, and focuses on the utility ofthe analytical hierarchy process (AHP) as adecision making tool in this eontext. The AHP has great potential value in integrating qualitative judgements with scientific information. However, its limitations for ranking issues that have a spatial dimension can be resolved by linking the AHP process to geographie information systems (GISs). A computer program called Catchment Decision Assistant provides a friendly user interface to construct AHP hierarchies and generate weighted map overlays using ArcView GIS with the Spatial Analyst extension. The program automates the GIS processing so the user needs to know little about GISoperation . This chapter describes the Catchment Decision Assistant architecture, how the AHP is implemented in a spatial context, and demonstrates its use to assess biophysical capability for horticultural crops in
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