How LANDFIRE EVT contributes to the estimation of forage

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Title: How LANDFIRE EVT contributes to the estimation of forage and seasonal range in Idaho: A perspective through time 2003-2023

Speaker: Scott Bergen, Senior Wildlife Research Biologist, Idaho Department of Fish and Game

Summary: Idaho Dept of Fish and Game uses LANDFIRE extant vegetation type databases 2001-2023 to estimate seasonal range analyses of Idaho’s big game species. Using mule deer as a focal species, IDFG has developed multi-temporal analyses that use GPS data that has been collected from deployed location collars through time (2003- present). One of the most influential factors in determining mule deer summer range is the quality of forage where IDFG reclassifies EVT vegetation data into forage type data. This data, along with several other graphic data are ‘mined’ using machine-learning algorithms to estimate both winter and summer range conditions for a seasonally migratory species and their conservation management. We will discuss how LANDFIRE data is used, some of the problems and inconsistencies found with LANDFIRE (2001-2023), and how LANDFIRE is an invaluable resource for the management of this iconic western species.