The purpose of this exercise is to develop a model to predict forest cover type using a number of cartographic measures. The given dataset (Online File W4.l) includes four wilderness areas found in the Roosevelt Natio nal Forest of northern Colorado. A total of 12 cartographic measures were utilized as independent variables; seven major forest cover types were used as dependent variables. The table on page 184 provides a short description of these independent and dependent variables:
This is an excellent example for a multiclass classification problem. The dataset is rather large (with 581,012 unique instances) and feature rich. As you will see, the data are also raw and skewed (unbalanced for different cover types). As a model builder, you are to make necessary decisions to preprocess the data and build the best possible pred ictor. Use your favorite tool to build the models and document the details of your actions and experiences in a written report. Use screenshots within your report to illustrate important and interesting findings. You are expected to discuss and justify any decision that you make alo ng the way.