A new research project, supported by Landkreis Goerlitz in Saxony and the Federal Ministry of Digitalization and Transport of Germany (BMDV), is revolutionizing forest monitoring methods to combat increasingly frequent forest fires. The project, conducted in collaboration with Geotechnology, Geoinformatics and Services GmbH (GGS), focused on monitoring a vast forest area of 170 km2 in northeastern Germany using a multi-dimensional approach.
To effectively cover a large area, aerial observations were carried out using both geodetic aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). At the same time, ground-based observation towers equipped with advanced sensor technology and field sensors were used. This comprehensive approach allowed for accurate and timely assessment of potential forest hazards.
Aerial research was based on an advanced camera set developed by GGS, which included thermal, near-infrared (NIR), and 3D imaging capabilities. The collected data, including RGB, CIR, NDVI images, and orthophoto boundary maps, were processed using advanced photogrammetric software to create real orthophotos and 3D models of the forest area.
The obtained data models have a wide range of practical applications. Forestry experts can use the models to assess the health of the forest, identify areas at high risk of fire, drought, or pest infestation, such as bark beetles. These areas can then be designated as priorities for observation and fire management. Additionally, the data can be used for emergency navigation systems, assisting firefighters in accessing information on access routes, water sources, and critical infrastructure.
The 3D models generated based on the project data enable realistic simulation of the forest area, allowing for further analysis and optimization of the location of observation towers and drone flights. Using artificial intelligence modules, the models enable the simulation of forest fires to determine their visibility from distant points at different heights and flight strategies.
Although this research project focused on a specific forest area, its success paves the way for the application of advanced forest monitoring techniques on a larger scale. The use of modern technologies allows for early detection and rapid response to potential fires, ultimately protecting valuable wildlife habitats and preventing extensive damage.
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The source of the article is from the blog be3.sk