About RADMAP
The Range and Distribution Mapping and Analysis Project (RADMAP) develops and maintains a library of species habitat models (SHM) and range maps, with a focus on imperiled plants and animals.
The SHM maps show the locations in the landscape where the habitat conditions are most likely to support the species. Each SHM in the RADMAP library has been reviewed by a species expert and has associated metadata describing modeling methods, validation statistics, and the list of environmental variables used.
RADMAP Products
- Species Habitat Models - Species habitat models (SHMs) are statistical models that indicate a focal species’ likely distribution. Models fit relationships between presence localities and habitat covariates, generally including vegetation type and structure as well as abiotic factors such as slope, elevation, and climate, and extrapolating these onto a map. SHMs predict the relative probability that habitat conditions that support the species are present across the landscape. The model may be represented by a continuous surface (values between 0 and 1) or as a categorical map (e.g., low, medium, high). For more information, refer to the range map and species habitat model use case guidance document (PDF).
- Species Range Maps - A species range is the generalized geographic area within which a species occurs without consideration of specific habitat that the species uses. Range maps will include the polygon(s) bounding the geographic extent over which the focal species is known to occur in California. RADMAP is creating or updating range maps for taxa as needed, incorporating expert review and following an updated Standards and Guidelines framework to ensure consistency. Range maps are based on species occurrence data, collated from various sources, including CNDDB, iNaturalist, museum records, and other CDFW datasets. The range maps define the final, published extent of the SHMs.
RADMAP Library
The RADMAP library of range maps and habitat models is made available through the model dashboard and the CDFW BIOS viewer, providing expert-reviewed approved products to CDFW staff, partners, stakeholders, and the general public. Typically, one range map and one species habitat model is produced per taxon.
RADMAP Dashboard
Looking for a range map or SHM for a California species? Model library coming soon! In the mean time, you can access final products through BIOS.
The RADMAP dashboard will provide access to expert-vetted range maps and SHMs for California species in a single, user-friendly location. The dashboard contains models developed by RADMAP, CDFW staff, Natureserve, and other researchers and partners.
Have a model to submit to the model library? Contact conservationanalysis@wildlife.ca.gov