Assessing Marine Mammal Species Distribution Model Usage and Future Modeling Considerations in the United States Northwest Atlantic

Abstract

The Northwest Atlantic is shaped by dynamic oceanographic features that drive biological productivity, attracting a diverse array of species whose distribution overlaps with extensive human use activities. To effectively manage this shared resource, environmental managers rely on spatial models of seasonal species distribution to monitor potential overlap. This project used a mixed-methods survey to examine stakeholder usage and perceptions of the Marine Geospatial Ecology Lab’s marine mammal species distribution models throughout the Northwest Atlantic. Survey results indicate that stakeholders frequently apply these models in management and conservation contexts and find them valuable for decision-making, while also identifying opportunities to improve accuracy and applicability in certain contexts. Through this analysis, I identified general limitations associated with species distribution modeling throughout this region and provided three recommendations to address them.