Exploring Artificial Intelligence for Applications of Drones in Forest Ecology and Management

This paper highlights the significance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the
realm of drone applications in forestry. Drones have revolutionized various
forest operations, and their role in mapping, monitoring, and inventory pro-
cedures is explored comprehensively. Leveraging advanced imaging technologies
and data processing techniques, drones enable real-time tracking of changes
in forested landscapes, facilitating effective monitoring of threats such as fire
outbreaks and pest infestations. They expedite forest inventory by swiftly sur-
veying large areas, providing precise data on tree species identification, size
estimation, and health assessment, thus supporting informed decision-making
and sustainable forest management practices. Moreover, drones contribute to
tree planting, pruning, and harvesting, while monitoring reforestation efforts in
real-time. Wildlife monitoring is also enhanced, aiding in the identification of
conservation concerns and informing targeted conservation strategies. Drones
offer a safer and more efficient alternative in search and rescue operations within
dense forests, reducing response time and improving outcomes. Additionally,
drones equipped with thermal cameras enable early detection of wildfires, en-
abling timely response, mitigation, and preservation efforts. The integration
of AI and drones holds immense potential for enhancing forestry practices and
contributing to sustainable land management. In the future explainable AI
(XAI) improves trust and safety by providing transparency in decision-making,
aiding in liability issues, and enabling precise operations. XAI facilitates better
environmental monitoring and impact analysis, contributing to efficient forest
management and preservation efforts. If a drone’s AI can explain its actions,
it will be easier to understand why it chose a particular path or action, which
could inform safety procedures and improvements.