ConserveOnline - Regional GIS-based Geostatistical Models for Stream Networks, by Erin Peterson

You are here: Home → workspaces → Alaska Salmon Habitat Prediction Workshop → Session IV: Geospatial tools for estimating salmon distribution → Regional GIS-based Geostatistical Models for Stream Networks, by Erin Peterson

Regional GIS-based Geostatistical Models for Stream Networks, by Erin Peterson

By Web Admin on 6/5/2007 | Keyword(s): Session iv: geospatial tools for estimating salmon distribution

Geostatistical modeling in stream networks is a relatively new statistical technique, which could be used to generate salmon and salmon habitat predictions at unobserved sites throughout Alaska. Regional geostatistical models incorporate spatial autocorrelation and combine coarse-scale geographic information system (GIS) data, such as geology type, with data collected using field-survey methods. Spatial data for the models, such as the separation distance between sites based on hydrologic distance, are generated in a GIS using the Functional Linkage of Watersheds and Streams (FLoWS) tools. Once the models have been developed, a GIS can be used to identify spatial patterns in the model fit. The fitted geostatistical models are used to generate prediction values with a measure of uncertainty, which allows future field efforts to be concentrated in areas with large amounts of uncertainty or a greater potential to support anadromous fish. The model results can also be displayed visually, which helps professionals communicate results to a wide variety of audiences. This methodology has clear advantages related to conservation because it can be used to locate anadromous fish habitat in a rapid and cost-efficient manner.

ConserveOnline is a part of the Conservation Commons. Some content may be subject to Creative Commons licenses.
© ConserveOnline.