Visual Simulation Examples

Visual simulations communicate ideas in a way that line drawings and words cannot, making this technology appropriate for any activity, program, or project where visual media would enhance communication. Some examples of potential applications include:

Image editing used as a planning tool to present alternatives and solicit feedback.
Image editing used as a presentation tool to communicate final plans.
Image editing as a construction aid to contractors.
Image editing used as a design tool to assist designers in making decisions.
Image editing as a training aid to help employees visualize new concepts.
Image editing as a marketing tool for new programs and activities.
Image editing as a visual impact analysis tool for public meetings and documents.

Using Visual Simulations

Visual simulations can be output in a variety of ways, from simple handouts printed on an inkjet printer to large posters printed on professional-quality plotters. One powerful way to use visual simulations is in a PowerPoint slide show.

View a video showing a PowerPoint slideshow to illustrate a proposal to reduce flood damages to an existing house…

About Agroforestry

Agroforestry intentionally combines agriculture and forestry to create integrated and sustainable land-use systems. Agroforestry takes advantage of the interactive benefits from combining trees and shrubs with crops and/or livestock. Agroforestry practices include:

About the NAC

The USDA National Agroforestry Center (NAC) had its origins in the 1990 Farm Bill. It began as a Forest Service Research and State & Private Forestry effort in 1992 and expanded into a partnership with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in 1995. It is administered by the Forest Service's, Washington, DC, Office of Research and Development. NAC offices are located in Lincoln, Nebraska and Blacksburg, Virginia.

NAC accelerates the application of agroforestry through a national network of partners. Together, we conduct research, develop technologies and tools, coordinate demonstrations and training, and provide useful information to natural resource professionals.

About Working Trees

The right trees planted in the right places for the right reasons can add value to land-use systems. That's the Working Trees message that helps natural resource professionals, community leaders, and landowners identify with the concept of agroforestry. NAC uses the Working Trees theme to promote the development of sustainable agriculture and communities.