Training
MODULE 1
Introduction to Ecological Forecasting
Ecological forecasting is an emerging approach which provides an estimate of the future state of an ecological system with uncertainty, allowing society to prepare for changes in important ecosystem services. In this module, you will apply the iterative forecasting cycle to develop an ecological forecast for a National Ecological Observation Network (NEON) site.
MODULE 2
Understanding Uncertainty in Ecological Forecasts
Uncertainty is a crucial part of an ecological forecast, understanding where it comes from, techniques in how it can be measured and ways in which it can be reduced to provide more accurate forecasts. In this module, you will generate an ecological forecast for a NEON site and quantify the different sources of uncertainty within their forecast.
MODULE 3
Using Data to Improve Ecological Forecasts
Currently there are vast monitoring networks which collect data at various frequencies across multiple ecosystems. These data can iteratively update our near-term forecasts and improve predictions in a process called data assimilation. In this module, you will assimilate contrasting data streams and quantify how they affect forecast skill.
MODULE 4
Using Ecological Forecasts to Guide Decision Making
Ecological forecasting is an emerging approach which allows society to preemptively prepare for fluctuations in important ecosystem services. Forecasts that are effectively designed and communicated to managers and the public will be most effective in realizing their potential for protecting natural resources. In this module, you will learn about different ways to communicate forecast predictions and uncertainty to a range of users, and use forecast visualizations to make a management decision.
