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Computer Modeling
Technology like Terra-i is enabling scientists throughout the world
to vastly expand their knowledge about wildlife and what must be
done to protect animals and their habitats. Another example of such
technology is a sophisticated computer program called LANDFIRE.
Developed by scientists at the Nature Conservancy, LANDFIRE is
a computer modeling program. It can help scientists understand
the condition of natural habitats long ago—even as far back as the
1600s, when the first European settlers arrived in America. On the
basis of past and current data, it can also predict what might hap-
pen to various habitats in the future.
Illegal logging has resulted in deforestation in Colombia
(pictured). Some scientists are using an arti cial
intelligence program that helps them identify forests
that are being lost to illegal logging and other activities.
