4.5.2. Development of a Conceptual Model A simple model of the relationship between the stressors and impacts for the Ob River is illustrated in Figure 6. Several benefits are derived from developing a conceptual model. Conceptual models highlight what we know and don’t know and can be used to plan future work, and the process of creating a conceptual model can be a powerful learning tool. In addition, the models can be powerful communication tools because they provide an explicit expression of the assumptions and understanding of a system that others can evaluate. Since risk assessment is an iterative process, conceptual models can be modified and improved as knowledge increases. Conceptual models provide a framework for prediction and are the template for generating more hypotheses about risk.
