A new version of WSIE (Waikato Integrated Scenario Explorer), the spatially explicit simulation model of the Waikato Region has been released in January 2012. WISE version 1.2.0 features a number of improvements identified and prioritised by the WISE partners to enhance its performance and capability. A key new feature is the addition of a ‘Forestry Carbon Sector’ that assists the development and implementation of the Waikato Regional Council’s Carbon Strategy. This strategy aims to achieve better environmental outcomes benefitting from carbon credits issued by New Zealand’s Emission Trading Scheme (ETS) by planting trees on marginal farm land (e.g. steep, erosion-prone land). Targeted co-benefits include biodiversity, water quality and hydrological flow improvements.
Planned enhancements for the next update of WISE include improved transport and infrastructure functionality and adding coastal/marine and ecosystem services models.