Bayesian Inference: Application To Environmental Management And Decision-Making

Abstract

Implementation of GIS based Bayesian inference into New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection’s (NJDEP) environmental monitoring “toolkit” has the potential to substantially improve monitoring efficiency and reduce long-term monitoring costs while simultaneously improving prediction capacity. In this context, the Scientific Advisory Board, Ecological Processes Standing Committee (EPSC) was tasked with addressing the overarching question: should the NJDEP evaluate and/or test Bayesian-based statistical analysis methods with the potential to substantially improve monitoring efficiency and outcomes in the near future? If so, what alternative methods should be evaluated?