Innovative Approaches to Whale Protection
SAS is paving the way for enhanced ocean conservation efforts through its collaboration with Fathom Science. This initiative emphasizes the significance of protecting marine life, particularly the critically endangered North Atlantic right whales. With the power of data and artificial intelligence (AI), SAS is enabling proactive measures for marine protection.
WhaleCast: A Groundbreaking Predictive Model
Fathom Science, a tech spin-off from North Carolina State University, has developed WhaleCast, an advanced whale location prediction model. This innovative tool utilizes historical whale sighting data in conjunction with sophisticated ocean models to generate heatmap projections of right whale activity. The aim is to equip vessels with the necessary insights, allowing them to avoid striking these endangered creatures as they traverse along the East Coast.
Integrating Technology into Maritime Operations
To make the WhaleCast model accessible, Fathom aims for it to be incorporated into existing on-board touch screens of marine vessels. Mariners will receive real-time data indicating potential whale activity in their vicinity. This actionable information empowers them to adjust their speed and navigation, significantly reducing the likelihood of accidental strikes on these majestic animals.
Validation through Advanced Techniques
In a bid to ensure WhaleCast's effectiveness, Taylor Shropshire, Head of Marine Resiliency at Fathom Science, sought the expertise of SAS' Data for Good program. This partnership facilitates the exploration of machine learning techniques that can refine whale location predictions. With the application of rigorous statistical analysis and machine learning methods, WhaleCast is put to the test.
Synthetic Data Generation for Accurate Modeling
To enhance the modeling process, the SAS Data for Good volunteer successfully generated synthetic data using SAS® Data Maker. By creating nearly 500,000 data points that closely align with original data characteristics, the volunteer was able to conduct thorough training, validation, and testing across seven machine learning models. This comprehensive approach allows for more precise calculations and helps highlight the strengths and weaknesses of different modeling techniques.
Calculating Distance from Shore
Following the initial modeling phase, the SAS volunteer employed the SAS Viya Workbench, a robust programming environment, to tackle another key aspect: estimating the distance of whales from the shore. By integrating distance data into the WhaleCast model, Fathom Science can further ensure the reliability of its predictive capabilities, enriching its overall accuracy.
Insights and Future Applications
Taylor Shropshire expressed enthusiasm regarding the collaboration, noting, "It was fascinating to watch SAS develop multiple models in a swift manner. They expanded from basic models to more advanced neural networks, effectively demonstrating the advantages and limitations of each approach." This insight reflects the progressive nature of whale conservation efforts enhanced through AI and data analytics.
Join the Cause for Marine Conservation
Fathom Science is committed to leveraging technology and data to protect marine ecosystems. By adopting advanced machine learning models and insights from experts at SAS, they are positioning themselves as a leader in whale conservation and marine protection initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is WhaleCast?
WhaleCast is an advanced predictive model developed by Fathom Science to forecast the presence of North Atlantic right whales, helping vessels avoid potential collisions.
How does SAS contribute to marine conservation?
SAS collaborates with organizations like Fathom Science to apply data and AI for real-time insights, enhancing decision-making in marine operations and conservation efforts.
What technology is used in WhaleCast?
WhaleCast combines historical whale sighting data with ocean models and utilizes machine learning techniques for accurate predictions.
Why is protecting North Atlantic right whales important?
This species is critically endangered, making their protection vital for maintaining biodiversity and marine ecosystem health.
How can mariners access WhaleCast's predictions?
The WhaleCast model is designed to integrate with vessel on-board systems, providing real-time whale activity data to mariners.
