Foundation Conservation Carpathia and the Zentiva Group of companies are integrating advanced technology with a commitment to conservation, transforming the way we monitor and protect forests in the Făgăraș Mountains. This collaboration enhances efficiency and creates a valuable database for the future.
In a world of rapidly advancing technology, the use of drones and artificial intelligence (AI) for forest monitoring and regeneration is becoming increasingly important. This initiative optimises and streamlines the process of monitoring ecological reconstruction sites, where forest plantations are being planted or are about to be planted, by providing accurate images, especially of hard-to-reach areas.
How the process works
The first step is to map the flight route to be flown by the drone. Then the drone is launched to fly over the predetermined locations and capture images, providing a detailed and accurate view of the terrain, including vegetation and topography. By superimposing hundreds of photos in a specialised programme, a complete and up-to-date picture of the terrain is obtained, essential for monitoring and assessing long-term change. This method helps create detailed georeferenced maps of specific areas (polygons). The images are then analysed with the help of AI, using advanced algorithms to identify vegetation, assess seedling density, and monitor natural forest regeneration.
“Based on the AI analysis, specialists can determine whether planted seedlings have taken hold, monitor their growth, and assess the impact of different forest management interventions,” said Mihai Zotta, Conservation Director of Foundation Conservation Carpathia. “The information obtained is crucial for making data-driven decisions about the conservation and reforestation of an area.”
Advantages of using drones and artificial intelligence (AI)
Drones can quickly cover large areas and provide accurate data, saving time and resources compared to traditional methods. Continuous monitoring facilitates rapid interventions when problems are identified, contributing to effective environmental protection and biodiversity conservation.
“In the future, we aim to purchase drones that allow LIDAR laser scanning of forest areas for even more detailed mapping of the forest environment and to create comprehensive data on every element within the forest,” Mihai Zotta adds. “We also need large drones that can be used in the reforestation process. With their help, hard-to-access areas, sloping areas that have suffered from erosion, where planting is extremely difficult, can be sown with forest tree seeds.”
Using drones to monitor the environment is a significant step towards the sustainable conservation of our fragile ecosystems. Despite technological progress, rangers have a crucial role in interpreting and applying the data collected, ensuring the effective protection of nature for future generations.
These innovations not only help us to better understand our human impact on the environment but also to manage natural resources more efficiently and responsibly.
