Methods Overview

In the following sections, we describe our methods for producing the derived data products that are used as inputs to map WSRRI spatial priorities in TerrAdapt's dynamic cloud-based workflow, illustrated in the figure below.

The raw data (climate data, topography, soils, hydrology, infrastructure, and remote sensing data) are used as inputs into models of landcover, human footprint (a model that quantifies impacts of human activities), and rangeland vegetation. These derived products then feed into models that quantify habitat suitability and resistance to movement for each of the WSRRI targets. Then we map core habitat in areas of high local habitat suitability, and corridors that connect them via routes that minimize resistance to movement. The final spatial priorities include cores (the highest quality areas), growth opportunity areas (areas of lower quality that still retain some habitat) and corridors.