By Greg Fuller, Institute for Commercial Forestry Research (ICFR) Technical Manager

As we look towards the future of forestry operations, one technology is emerging as a true game-changer: drones. In the next five years, we can expect drone technology to transform forest management by integrating precision applications and advanced spatial analytics, enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and data-driven decision-making.

Precision applications

The use of drones in plantation forestry is rapidly transforming the way forests are monitored and managed. With high-resolution, multi-temporal imagery, drones provide foresters with a powerful tool to assess tree health, track tree growth rates, and detect early signs of pests or diseases. Advanced remote sensing technologies, such as multispectral and LiDAR imaging, allow for precise mapping of canopy structure, biomass estimation, and detailed quantification of carbon pools.

Beyond forest health monitoring, drones are streamlining inventory management by delivering accurate tree counts and volume estimations, significantly reducing the time and cost associated with traditional field surveys.

Their ability to cover vast areas quickly also makes them indispensable for assessing abiotic damage from fire, drought, or hail, and even unauthorised logging activities. By integrating drone-collected data with advanced analytics, plantation managers can optimise resource allocation, improve silvicultural practices, and enhance overall forest sustainability.

Drones are also increasingly being used for the precision application of pesticides and herbicides for weed control in both commercial and conservation areas, a crucial advancement that minimises human exposure to hazardous chemicals while reducing reliance on inefficient blanket spraying methods. As technology continues to evolve, drones are set to become an essential tool in the future of precision forestry.

However, there is a caveat, as transformation hinges on supportive legislation, particularly the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) laws governing UAV operations.

Overcoming legislative hurdles

Despite the promising prospects of drone technology in forestry, the journey has not been without challenges. In South Africa, stringent legislative and regulatory requirements have posed significant hurdles to the legal compliance of AUV operations. Obtaining a Remote Pilot Licence (RPL) and securing additional permissions, such as the Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operating Certificate (UASOC), is a daunting, time-consuming, and costly process. It often requires weeks of study and up to R100,000 in expenses just to become a registered operator.

Reform of the current South African UAV legislation is needed for the forestry sector to be able to unlock the true potential of this technology.

That said, the potential for drones in forestry is limitless! While becoming a certified drone pilot was at times daunting, it has ultimately been a rewarding experience. Piloting cutting-edge technology and contributing to the industry with newly acquired skills has been incredibly fulfilling.

I am deeply grateful for the confidence and support from the ICFR and Forestry South Africa (FSA), and I look forward to seeing more industry-led projects that leverage the valuable resources established at the ICFR soon.

Source: Article posted on the ICFR website on 5 March 2025.