An integrated modelling system for investigating the benefits of catchmentmanagement

Complex natural resource degradation problems such as dryland salinisation require integrated management solutions. Integrated catchment modelling can be used to develop such solutions. This paper presents three models that w ere applied independently in the Liverpool Plains Catchment, an important c rop production area, in Eastern Australia. They are a point soil-plant-wate r model, an economic catchment model, and a catchment hydrology model. Afte r discussing their individual merits and limitations, the paper develops th e concept of a holistic modelling framework by combining these models to ga in synergy effects in analytical ability as well as applicability and imple mentation of results. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd.