Geoscientific Model Development
Geoscientific Model Development
GMD
Articles | Volume 17, issue 15
Articles | Volume 17, issue 15
https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-17-6007-2024
© Author(s) 2024. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
https://doi.org/10.5194/gmd-17-6007-2024
© Author(s) 2024. This work is distributed under
the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Articles | Volume 17, issue 15
Model evaluation paper
 | 
14 Aug 2024
Model evaluation paper |  | 14 Aug 2024

Random forests with spatial proxies for environmental modelling: opportunities and pitfalls

Carles Milà, Marvin Ludwig, Edzer Pebesma, Cathryn Tonne, and Hanna Meyer

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Short summary
Spatial proxies, such as coordinates and distances, are often used as predictors in random forest models for predictive mapping. In a simulation and two case studies, we investigated the conditions under which their use is appropriate. We found that spatial proxies are not always beneficial and should not be used as a default approach without careful consideration. We also provide insights into the reasons behind their suitability, how to detect them, and potential alternatives.
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