Professor awarded new AI grant to develop water level forecasting models for the Everglades

Faculty Award, Research

Dr. Giri Narasimhan received a new research award, “Integrative Forecasting for Everglades Water Levels: A Machine Learning Approach,” from the U.S. Department of Interior, National Park Service. The project will develop and implement a comprehensive water level forecasting model for Everglades National Park. Dr. Narasimhan’s research team will leverage cutting-edge machine learning algorithms to develop models that incorporate multiple drivers of water level dynamics. These drivers include rainfall amounts, evapotranspiration, operations of water control structures, antecedent conditions, and sea level change. Current models are capable of including only a few of the above variables and factors. By incorporating machine learning algorithms, the researchers hope to develop a clear, comprehensive picture of the environmental impact these factors may have, as well as a better understanding of the interactions of these variables. The award is valued at $100,000 for two years and with first-year funding of $50,000.