Modeling chemical exposure to a range of different species is challenging for several reasons.  Existing habitat and land cover classifications often lack the precise classes needed for analyzing the habitat of species of interest, and habitat suitability models may require greater spatial detail than is typically present in existing products.  We present the results of a highly detailed land cover classification created using both aerial imagery and ancillary GIS data brought together with a two-stage expert system.  The resulting land cover classification has fourteen classes important for the target species being assessed, a minimum mapping unit of 1/20 acre, and distinct polygons that can be as narrow as four feet wide.  The classification was used in several detailed habitat suitability models, that were in turn used to estimate exposure to various wildlife species, and the effects on their populations.

Development of detailed habitat classification for wildlife exposure modeling

254th National Meeting (2017)

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