Bruce McLellan:  Population modeling in EXCEL (and POPTOOLS) for the mathophobe

EXCEL can be used to build mechanistic population models that are simple and understandable. Additions to these models that may make the modeller think realism is increased can easily be added. The EXCEL add on POPTOOLS enables many additions to simple models such as drawing vital rates from real data using random case selection with or without replacement (bootstrapping) while estimating many population parameters such as rate of increase, elasticity, and sensitivity. In this workshop we will build simple population models, predator prey models, and run Monte Carlo analyses. A basic understanding of EXCEL such as what the dollar sign does, is all that is needed.  Bruce’s workshop will be based on how the demographic rates of Grizzly bears were estimated from the Flathead River (see attached paper)

Ian Hatter:  Predator-Prey modeling in EXCEL

This workshop will review a predator-prey (wolf-ungulate) model, known as PredPrey, that was developed in Alaska to run in Microsoft EXCEL. The model was developed by Mark McNay and Robert Delong from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game to assist wildlife biologists with making management decisions related to harvesting of wolves and ungulate populations. The effects of management on both wolves and their primary prey can be modelled. Some modifications to the model may be provided at the workshop to make it more suitable for gaming different management scenarios.

Rob Serrouya: Testing Theory with Data

Rob will show two different ways to model predator-prey systems – One using an ordinary differential equation and the second using a difference equation (sometimes called a recurrence relation). The ODE will be based on this paper, where the strength and dynamics of apparent competition are modeled, whereas the difference equation will be based on this paper, where the effect of predation is evaluated based on theoretical relationships (e.g., whether predation is density dependent, independent, or depensatory). R codes can be downloaded now from the journal articles, or email Rob for the code. The difference equation can and will also be modeled in Excel. (See attached paper)

Registration

You are able to choose one out of the three workshops listed above. Workshop fee is $60.00.

Register here

NOTE: if you are attending the Predator Prey Dynamics conference, you should register for this workshop via the conference registration process.