In Bavaria, foresters are using drones and artificial intelligence (AI) to assess and restore forests damaged by Storm Ronson in July 2023. This storm severely affected the 400-hectare Allmannshorn private forest.
Specialised drones, which are already used in the Alps to monitor hard-to-reach forests, are now being used in Allmannshorn. These drones collect high-resolution aerial images, which AI software then analyses to identify tree heights and types. This optimises forest management by identifying areas in need of restoration, pinpointing young stands requiring care and providing owners with personalised advice.
These accurate and recent images also enable experts to map areas where access should be improved to facilitate forest management. According to Dr Stefan Friedrich (AELF Krumbach-Mindelheim), this technology offers valuable opportunities for reforestation and the sustainable transformation of Bavarian forests.