This data set represents modeled Greater Sage-Grouse (GRSG) Breeding Habitat or Breeding Distribution. Models, built with collaboration from WAFWA, are meant to be used as metrics for subsequent risk analyses and general GIS queries.
Modeled data developed by US FWS Kevin Doherty et al. 2015. Model outputs clipped to Current Occupied Range (US FWS 2015).
These data were thresholded at 0.65. Values of 1 represent probabilities >= 0.65, while values of 0 represent probabilities < 0.65.
GRSG Breeding Habitat models built within Management Zones because wide variation exists in occupied habitats across the range, and risks to sage-grouse vary across Management Zones. Lek data assembled by WAFWA was used to develop the breeding habitat model. Detailed model outputs were reviewed by biologist from each state, including statistical tables of model fit and how predictions aligned with landscapes local biologist work in.
A probabilistic model of occupied breeding habitat was developed by statistically linking habitat characteristics within 4-miles of an occupied lek using a non-linear machine learning technique called random forest. Model predictions produce a value of 0 to 1 for each 120-m2grid cell within each sage-grouse management zone. Statistical model fit was high (Mean = 82.0%, Range = 75.4% – 88.0%) as were cross-validations (Mean = 80.9%, Range = 75.1% – 85.8%). All active leks within the range were located on probabilities > 0.65, thus we used this threshold to define our occupied breeding habitat or breeding distribution. This data may or may not include other seasonal habitats known to be important to sage-grouse such as wintering and late summer habitats. This model represents the first seamless predictions of sage-grouse breeding habitat across the entire range. Models, built with collaboration from WAFWA, are meant to be used as metrics for subsequent risk analyses and general GIS queries.
See the Supplemental Information in file metadata for more information on the model work and data output.
