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Ross Meentemeyer

We will develop SMART-SLEUTH, an advanced spatially explicit modeling framework designed to augment the current SLEUTH model with sophisticated smart-growth capabilities. Based on the latest version of SLEUTH, we will create an open-source GIS-enabled software package that will implement SMART-SLEUTH with advanced modules and tools for evaluating, predicting, and visualizing smart growth scenarios and outcomes. In this software package, a more user friendly Graphic User Interface (GUI), a multi-level automatic calibration approach built on machine learning algorithms, and new spatial landscape metrics for quantifying land change patterns will provide enhanced support for complex model configuration, calibration,...
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This data release contains the associated data described in the related primary publication, “Predicting Flood Damage Probability Across the Conterminous United States” (Collins et al. [2022], see Related External Resources section). Publicly available geospatial datasets and random forest algorithms were used to analyze the spatial distribution and underlying drivers of flood damage probability caused by excessive rainfall and overflowing water bodies across the conterminous United States. Datasets contain input files for predictor and response variables used in the analysis and output files of flood damage probabilities generated from the analysis.
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Arguably the most direct, intense, and long-lasting modification that humans can make to a landscape is converting rural lands to urbanized areas. As human populations grow, the demand for urbanized areas will increase, and scientists can help natural resource managers plan for these changes by creating models that predict potential patterns of future urbanization. The Southeast U.S. is experiencing particularly rapid population growth, as a favorable winter climate has drawn millions to the region from other areas of the country over the past several decades. However, the Southeast is also at risk from the effects of climate change, particularly along its vast coastline, where over a quarter of the region’s population...
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The Southeast is currently undergoing high rates of population growth, urbanization, and land use change while also experiencing climatic changes. These changes are and will continue to threaten wildlife and their habitats. Most existing conservation programs and activities, however, focus on maintaining systems in their current condition, or returning them to a historic state, rather than enabling systems to adapt to projected changes. Recognizing this problem state fish and wildlife agencies, together with US Fish and Wildlife Service and others, have initiated the Southeast Conservation Adaptation Strategy (SECAS). This project will support the SECAS effort, which aims to develop a collaborative network of conservation...
One of the most significant and lasting changes humans can make to the environment is converting natural and rural areas into urbanized areas. As the population continues to grow, there is an increasing demand for urban spaces. In the Southeast U.S., which is known for its favorable climate and strong economy, rapid population growth has been observed in recent decades. However, this region is also highly vulnerable to climate change, particularly along its extensive coastline where many people live. Rising sea levels and increased flood risks pose significant challenges to coastal communities, potentially leading residents to relocate to safer areas at higher elevations and latitudes. This study aims to understand...
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