Using R to Update Minnesota’s Archaeological Predictive Model
Channel: Recording Archaeology
Date: 2020-10-28

The Minnesota Department of Transportation has migrated statistical analysis and modeling procedures  for  MnModel  Phase  4  from  SPlus  to  R.  This  change  has  resulted  in  cost  savings  and facilitated the transfer of the modeling program to Minnesota State University – Mankato. MnDOT and MSUM have been using R for exploratory data analysis, predictive modeling, and model evaluation. We have developed R scripts for both categorical and numeric models using a random forest ensemble learning method. We have explored and developed ArcGIS procedures for exporting data to R and importing models from R, including RBridge exploration. In the course of running models for twenty regions, we have developed insights on data preparation, sampling  design,  computing  requirements,  statistical  model  selection,  model  validation  and  workflow optimization. In this paper, we will share our lessons learned and experiences with R.


Elizabeth Ruth Hobbs, Carla Landrum