Forests in 3D: High-Tech scanning for smarter forest management
In January, researchers from the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU) traveled to Catalonia to collaborate with the Centre de la Propietat Forestal (CPF), a key partner in the TRANSFORMIT project. CPF plays a crucial role in advising forest managers on planning, silviculture, and sustainable forest management. As part of their work within one of TRANSFORMIT’s seven Living Labs, CPF is exploring innovative approaches to balancing forest conservation with productive use.
During the visit, SLU introduced state-of-the-art terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) technology, a powerful tool for capturing highly detailed 3D models of forests. Traditional forest inventories rely on manual measurements and aerial images, which can miss key structural details, particularly in complex and multi-layered forests. TLS, however, allows researchers to map the forest with millimeter precision, capturing both canopy and sub-canopy layers. This level of detail is essential for understanding forest composition, structure, and biodiversity, as well as assessing how different forest management strategies influence these factors.
The data collected during this visit will contribute to enhancing forest inventory methods within TRANSFORMIT’s Living Lab framework. By integrating high-resolution 3D models into forest planning, CPF and SLU aim to provide more precise and actionable insights for sustainable management decisions. This collaboration demonstrates how cutting-edge technology can support forest managers in making informed choices that balance ecosystem health, biodiversity, and resource use.
As the TRANSFORMIT project continues, the findings from this work will help shape innovative forest management strategies across the Living Labs. Stay tuned for more updates on how technology is transforming the way we understand and manage our forests!