Award participants have developed a host mapping toolthat uses opensource data, different algorithms, and ensemble models tomap the distribution of various pest hosts

Under this $115,954 cooperative agreement from the United States Department of Agriculture Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, North Carolina State University will develop algorithms and enhance ensemble models to map the distribution of agricultural pest hosts. Specifically, the university will create two new algorithms and ensemble mapping approaches, conduct case studies to evaluate their effectiveness, and produce outreach and training materials. Deliverables will include open-source code, algorithms and mapped data for host species, as well as tutorials and a final report. This award furthers the goals of the USDA APHIS' Plant and Animal Disease, Pest Control, and Animal Care program (CFDA #10.025) to safeguard U.S. agriculture from economically damaging plant and animal diseases and pests. No subawards are associated with this cooperative agreement.

Activities

Award participants will (1) develop two newalgorithms and ensemble approaches to map the location of hosts, (2)conduct case studies to evaluate the algorithms and ensemble approaches, and (3) develop outreach and training material. 3. Deliverables andexpected outcomes: 1. Open-source code and algorithms for mapping hostspecies, including output tables, figures, or maps of: a. Variableimportance metrics b. Confidence, uncertainty, and individual modelcontribution to ensemble model 2. Maps, data, and metadata for mappedhost species. 3. Tutorial and guide for using the tool 4. Final report 4. Intended beneficiary(IES): aphis and agricultural industry, including specialty crop growers. 5. Subrecipient activities, if knownor specified at the time of award: no subawards