Episodes
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In this episode, Bill Greer, co-founder of Common Space, shares his unique journey from rowing to building humanitarian satellite constellations. We explore the evolution of geospatial data, the challenges of satellite imagery access, and how open data can revolutionize environmental and humanitarian efforts.
Key Topics
- Evolution of geospatial data from early days to today
- Challenges in satellite imagery access and licensing
- The role of open data in humanitarian and environmental efforts
- Design and mission planning for satellite constellations
- The impact of AI and machine learning in earth observation
- Community engagement and building with local context
- Balancing commercial and public good in satellite data
- Future trends in space-based earth monitoring
Chapters
01:18 Bill Greer's Unique Career Path
05:07 Early Days of Geospatial Data
09:53 Field Experiences and Their Impact
12:26 The Role of Product Management in Geospatial Data
13:39 The Importance of Spatial Resolution
18:28 Challenges in Accessing Satellite Data
21:44 Common Space: A Nonprofit Approach to Satellite Imagery
24:40 Future Goals and Community Engagement of Common Space
29:09 Innovations in Forestry Monitoring
32:49 Challenges in Data Reliability and Access
33:57 Utilization of Remote Sensing Data
39:13 The Future of LiDAR in Remote Sensing
42:59 The Role of AI in Earth Observation
48:17 Local Context in Data Interpretation
49:00 Carbon Verification and Earth Observation
51:59 The Community's Role in Advancing Technology
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In this in-depth interview, Brian Huberty, President of the Minnesota Forestry Assocation, shares his extensive experience at the intersection of forestry, GIS, and remote sensing. He discusses technological advancements, challenges in data adoption, and the future of geospatial tools in environmental management.
Key Topics
- History of remote sensing in forestry
- Technological advancements in satellite imagery and LiDAR
- Challenges in data adoption and infrastructure
- Future of AI and machine learning in geospatial analysis
- Role of public and private sectors in resource management
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Digital Forester Podcast
02:43 Brian Huberty's Journey in Forestry and GIS
12:35 Technological Advancements in Forestry
24:50 The State of Remote Sensing in Forestry
43:35 The Minnesota Forestry Association and Shared Geo
50:45 Legacy and Future Aspirations in Forestry -
Missing episodes?
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Join Kevin Lim and Anton Holmström as they explore the transformative power of technology in forestry, from drones and AI to global trends and sustainability initiatives. Discover how Katam Technologies is revolutionizing forest management across the world.
Key Topics
The evolution of forestry technology and digitalizationThe role of AI and video analysis in forest measurementGlobal trends in forestry and digital transformationChallenges and opportunities in tropical forestryKatam Technologies' impact and future roadmapChapters
00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
01:16 Understanding Katam Technologies
05:51 The Role of Psychology in Technology Adoption
10:48 Forestry Landscape in Indonesia
18:31 The Need for Modernization in Forestry
22:34 Katam's Innovative Solutions for Forestry
29:17 Data Integrity in Forestry Operations
31:24 Challenges in Data Collection and Analysis
33:34 Cost Reduction vs. Volume Increase in Forestry
35:16 Transparency and Traceability in Data
38:28 The Importance of Historical Data
39:11 Pricing Models and Value Proposition
40:21 Global Expansion and Market Insights
43:14 Drivers of Adoption in New Markets
46:29 Emerging Trends in Forestry Technology
52:14 Diversifying Forestry Revenue Streams
53:31 The Mission Behind Katam Technologies
56:48 Future Vision for Forestry Management
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In this episode, Dr. Amir Soleimani, CEO and co-founder of TreeTrack, shares insights into innovative land restoration technology, the impact of wildfires, and the future of forestry. Discover how drone technology, seed pods, and AI are transforming ecological restoration efforts worldwide.
Key Topics
- TreeTrack's end-to-end ecosystem restoration model
- The science and technology behind proprietary seed pods
- The role of AI, GIS, and satellite monitoring in reforestation
- Challenges and opportunities in wildfire-affected land restoration
- Building trust with large institutional partners and First Nations
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Setup
03:03 Overview of TreeTrack and Its Mission
03:54 Technology and Forestry Challenges
03:58 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
04:57 Technical Difficulties and Audio Setup
05:21 Overview of TreeTrack and Its Mission
05:23 Introduction to Dr. Amir Soleimani and TreeTrack
10:47 The Journey to TreeTrack: Amir's Background
16:21 TreeTrack's Mission: End-to-End Land Restoration
20:04 Innovative Seed Pod Technology
26:03 Addressing Wildfire Challenges with Technology
30:17 Integrating AI and Data for Restoration
36:21 Partnerships and Community Engagement
39:30 Building Trust with Institutional Partners
42:22 The Role of Accelerators in Startup Success
46:57 Vision for the Future: Ecosystem Transformation
49:03 Memorable Experiences in Nature
50:49 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs -
In this conversation, Kevin Lim interviews Carlos Albuquerque, CEO of INFLOR, discussing his journey from computer science to forestry, the unique aspects of Brazilian forestry, and the evolution of INFLOR as a leading forest management system. They explore the integration of technology in forestry, the challenges of workforce shortages, and the future of the industry, including the impact of AI and automation. Carlos emphasizes the importance of collaboration and creating an ecosystem for innovation in forest management.
Takeaways
- Carlos has a background in computer science and joined INFLOR in 2008.
- Brazilian forestry focuses on short cycle forests, primarily eucalyptus.
- INFLOR was created to manage the entire forest chain from planting to delivery.
- The company has grown to about 120 employees, primarily in Brazil.
- Technology has evolved significantly in forestry, improving efficiency and data management.
- AI is underutilized in forestry, with potential for greater application.
- The integration of ERP systems is crucial for effective forest management.
- INFLOR offers a modular approach to its forest management system.
- Workforce challenges exist in Brazil, similar to other regions.
- Company culture at INFLOR emphasizes employee well-being and collaboration.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Carlos Albuquerque and INFLOR
03:39 Carlos's Journey into Forestry
07:53 Understanding Brazilian Forestry
10:54 The Evolution of INFLOR
14:21 Global Perspectives on Forest Management Systems
17:01 INFLOR's Growth and Workforce
18:15 Key Moments in Forestry Technology
22:46 The Role of Technology in Brazilian Forestry
24:23 Integrating ERP with Forest Management
27:09 Modular Approach to Forest Management
29:40 Talent and Workforce Challenges in Forestry
31:39 Company Culture at INFLOR
34:53 Looking Ahead: The Future of Forestry
35:22 Impact of Global Politics on Brazilian Forestry
37:48 Artificial Intelligence in Forestry
41:12 The Future of Automation in Forestry
49:50 Advice for the Next Generation of Foresters -
In this conversation, Kevin Lim interviews Derrick Emsley, CEO of veritree and co-founder of tentree. They discuss Derrick's entrepreneurial journey, the founding of tentree, and the transition to veritree, a technology platform designed to enhance reforestation efforts. Derrick shares insights into the challenges of verifying tree planting projects and the innovative technology veritree employs, including geospatial analysis and blockchain for transparency. The discussion highlights the importance of trust in environmental initiatives and the potential for technology to drive impactful change in sustainability. In this conversation, Derrick Emsley discusses the challenges and opportunities in the reforestation sector, particularly focusing on verification standards and the importance of transparency. He highlights successful projects in Kenya and Canada, emphasizing the impact of partnerships. Derrick also shares insights on the role of AI in enhancing reforestation efforts and the significance of understanding the core problems in the industry. He concludes with advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of being problem-focused rather than solution-obsessed.
Takeaways
- Derrick Emsley started his entrepreneurial journey at a young age.
- tentree was created to connect consumers with tree planting initiatives.
- veritree emerged from the need for better verification in reforestation.
- Technology plays a crucial role in monitoring and verifying tree planting.
- Blockchain can enhance trust in environmental projects.
- Derrick's background in Saskatchewan influenced his work ethic and values.
- The importance of community support in entrepreneurship.
- veritree's technology connects funders with restoration projects.
- The role of geospatial technology in project design and implementation.
- Trust is essential for the success of digital environmental products. Verification standards can create challenges in reforestation.
- Transparency is key to overcoming verification issues.
- Successful partnerships can lead to significant impact.
- Traveling to project sites enhances understanding and motivation.
- Diverse reforestation initiatives include mangroves and agroforestry.
- AI can streamline workflows and improve data insights.
- Setting ambitious goals can drive team motivation.
- Quality of tree planting is as important as quantity.
- Understanding the problem is crucial for entrepreneurs.
- Real-world experience is essential for identifying industry challenges.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to veritree and tentree
02:56 Derrick Emsley's Early Journey and Entrepreneurial Roots
06:06 The Genesis of tentree and Its Impact
09:11 Transitioning to veritree: The Need for Technology
12:01 Building Technology for Reforestation
15:00 Understanding veritree's Technology and Applications
17:52 Customer Engagement and Project Implementation
21:09 The Role of Blockchain in veritree
24:02 Future of Reforestation and Technology
27:52 Navigating Verification Challenges in Reforestation
33:00 Highlighting Successful Projects and Partnerships
38:05 The Impact of Travel on Project Insights
40:55 Exploring Diverse Reforestation Initiatives
45:03 The Role of AI in Enhancing Reforestation Efforts
48:45 Scaling Goals: Challenges and Opportunities
51:57 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs -
Jason Dain, Director of Product - Forest Operations at Remsoft, joins The Digital Forester podcast to share his incredible journey from Ottawa’s outdoors to leading forestry tech innovation. Jason reflects on 25+ years in forestry and technology, from boots-on-the-ground operations to global digital transformation. We explore how forestry practices have evolved, the three seismic tech shifts that changed the industry, and why bridging the gap between people and technology is critical for success. Jason also dives into AI’s role in forestry, future visions of remote harvesting, and the puzzle he’s determined to solve before retirement.
Tune in for insights on sustainability, climate adaptation, and advice for the next generation of foresters.
Topics Covered:
Jason’s early connection to nature and the Junior Ranger programCombining forestry and technology: from BASIC programming to Trimble Forestry to RemsoftEvolution of forestry practices: analog to digital transformationThree major tech shifts: land divestiture, certification, SaaS adoptionChallenges in digital adoption and overcoming resistanceAI in forestry: short, medium, and long-term use casesFuture vision: remote and autonomous harvestingClimate change impacts and adaptive forestry practicesThe ultimate puzzle: closing the feedback loop between planning and reality -
Levi Farrand, CEO of Deep Forestry, joins The Digital Forester podcast to share his incredible journey from adventure guide and naval diver in Australia to leading a cutting-edge forest tech company in Sweden.
Deep Forestry is pioneering fully autonomous LiDAR-equipped drones that can fly beneath the forest canopy, creating highly detailed digital twins of forests for inventory, planning, and carbon projects.
Levi takes us through the early startup days—bootstrapping with his co-founder, recruiting his first engineer from a rock-climbing gym, and proving that their system could map every tree in a stand with accuracy rivaling or surpassing traditional field methods. We dive into the challenges of scaling AI-driven forest mapping, the future of sub-canopy drones in commercial and conservation forestry, and why Levi believes democratizing access to this technology will transform decision-making in forests around the world.
If you care about data-driven forestry, carbon transparency, and the future of forest management, this episode is a must-listen.
Topics Covered:
Levi’s journey from adventure guide and naval diver to tech founderBuilding Deep Forestry from a startup idea to a global solutionThe role of autonomous LiDAR drones in creating digital twins of forestsStartup challenges: bootstrapping, networks, and early adoptersPrecision and accuracy in sub-canopy forest measurementsApplications for inventory, carbon markets, and time-series monitoringPricing models and the shift from hardware to service-based deliveryScaling innovation: batteries, lighter LiDAR, and AI pipelinesOpportunities in diverse forests vs. monoculturesLevi’s vision for democratizing access to affordable forest mapping tools -
Alex Deslauriers, Co-Founder & CEO of FireSwarm Solutions, joins The Digital Forester podcast to share how his personal loss to wildfire sparked a mission to transform how we fight fires. With a background in aerospace engineering and search and rescue, Alex and his team at FireSwarm Solutions are developing heavy-lift drones, swarm intelligence, and AI-driven systems to deliver water and suppression agents faster, safer, and more effectively.
We explore Alex’s journey, the challenges of wildfire management in a changing climate, and how technology and partnerships are redefining what’s possible on the fire line.
If you care about innovation, resilience, and the future of wildfire response, this episode is a must-listen.
Topics Covered:
Alex’s background in aerospace and SAR (search and rescue)The personal impact of the 2023 BC wildfiresFounding FireSwarm Solutions and its missionHeavy-lift drones and swarm technology for wildfire suppressionUsing AI to coordinate rapid response in high-risk conditionsThe role of partnerships and collaboration in scaling innovationChallenges of bringing aerospace tech into forestry operationsThe future vision for wildfire management: speed, safety, resilience -
Domenico Iannidinardo, CEO, and Aaron Fujikawa, Director of Remote Sensing & Geomatics at Strategic Natural Resource Group (SNRgroup), join us on The Digital Forester podcast to share how they're navigating the future of forestry and resource management in British Columbia.
Domenico brings decades of leadership experience from the forest industry, while Aaron shares how Strategic’s tech-forward mindset is driving innovation with GIS, remote sensing, and operational analytics. Together, they break down how a boots-on-the-ground culture and Indigenous majority ownership are helping the company respond to today’s biggest forestry challenges — from wildfires to shifting tenure models.
If you’re curious about where digital forestry meets field operations, this is the episode for you.
Topics Covered:
Domenico’s transition from forest industry executive to CEO of StrategicAaron’s background in GIS and 15+ years leading geospatial innovationThe founding story and evolution of Strategic Natural Resource GroupShifting BC forestry tenures and Indigenous leadershipWildfires, spill response, and rapid deployment operationsEmbracing technology: GPS, drones, LiDAR, and digital twinsStrategic Natural Resource Group's approach to building dashboards and data portalsHow remote sensing and field data fuel better planningThe intersection of climate change, land management, and techRecruiting and retaining top talent in forestry and natural resources -
Lorne Carson, President of Carson Integrated, joins us on The Digital Forester podcast to share his journey from the East Coast to building a diverse group of companies rooted in Western Canada. Lorne walks us through the ups and downs of entrepreneurship in forestry, energy, and environmental services. We talk about the state of forestry in Western Canada, challenges with wildfire and regulation, and where real innovation is happening today — including AI, exoskeletons for field crews, and even augmented reality.
Tune in to hear how Lorne's boots-on-the-ground approach, willingness to pivot, and passion for people have shaped a resilient, tech-savvy forestry business built to last.
Topics Covered:
Lorne’s path into forestry and move from the East Coast to AlbertaStarting Carson Integrated and evolving beyond traditional consultingBuilding and winding down multiple businesses: safety, GIS, rentalsState of forestry in Western Canada vs. British ColumbiaEntrepreneurial lessons in timing, failure, and resilienceThe impact of wildfires and adapting operations in real timeTechnology trends: data overload, machine learning, and AIUsing exoskeletons in forestry fieldworkVision for AR/VR and immersive digital forestry toolsChallenges of innovation adoption in woodlands operationsThe future of Carson Integrated and Western Canadian forestry -
In this episode of The Digital Forester, Howard Butler, President of Hobu Inc., shares his journey from agricultural roots to leading innovation in open-source geospatial software. We explore the evolution of tools like GDAL, PDAL, and Entwine, and how they're transforming forestry, especially in handling and visualizing massive point cloud datasets.
Howard explains how technologies like SilviMetric are modernizing forestry analytics and data management. He also shares thoughts on the future of lidar, cloud-optimized formats, AI, and what’s next for scalable, open geospatial systems. A must-listen for digital foresters and GIS professionals.
Topics Covered:
Howard’s path from agriculture to GIS and open-source softwareFounding of Hobu Inc. and the philosophy behind open sourceKey projects: GDAL, PROJ, PDAL, Entwine, and Cloud Optimized Point CloudsHow PDAL emerged with support from the U.S. Army Corps of EngineersForestry applications: point cloud processing, classification, and raster generationSilviMetric: developed with the U.S. Forest Service for forestry metric analysisThe role of cloud-native formats and scalable data accessAdoption across governments, research, and industryAI, Gaussian splatting, and the future of 3D geospatial analysisAdvice for getting started with geospatial tools -
Dr. Nicholas Coops, Canada Research Chair in Remote Sensing at UBC, joins The Digital Forester podcast to talk about his journey through forestry, research, and innovation. We explore how remote sensing has evolved, its impact on forest management, and what’s next for the field. From global monitoring to cutting-edge projects, Nicholas shares insights from decades at the forefront of forest science.
Topics Covered:
- Dr. Coops’ career path and early influences in remote sensing
- The role of remote sensing in modern forestry
- Building the Integrated Remote Sensing Studio at UBC
- Shifts in satellite data, LiDAR, and forest inventory methods
- Translating academic research into operational tools
- Upcoming SilviLaser 2025 conference in Quebec City, Canada
- Challenges and opportunities in global forest monitoring
- Mentorship, leadership, and collaboration in science
- Dr. Coops’ perspective on what’s next for digital forestry
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Andrea Feunekes, co-founder and former CEO of Remsoft, helps us kick off Season 5 of The Digital Forester. Andrea reflects on 30+ years of leading Remsoft, building a global business from the ground up with her husband Ugo, and shares lessons learned along the way. We dive into the evolution of forestry tech, the importance of change management, data readiness, and Remsoft’s exciting future with the recent acquisition of Lim Geomatics and platform growth. Tune in to hear why Andrea believes we’re on the edge of a connected, intelligent forestry future.
Topics Covered
The founding story of Remsoft and early challengesKey technological shifts in forestry: GIS, optimization, AIDefining true optimization and digital forest twinsThe role of data quality and organizational readinessChange management and adapting processes for techThe creation of Remsoft Operations and its AI co-pilotThe acquisition of Lim Geomatics and vision for a connected supply chainChoosing the right private equity partner with Banneker PartnersAdvice for entrepreneurs and working with familyAndrea’s future view: automation, decision-making, and digital tools in forestry -
Henry Ines is Co-Founder and CEO of Chainparency and joins us from Houston, Texas, USA. Chainparency is a supply chain software and data solutions company that develops turnkey and modular blockchain-based applications and digital tools that help its customers to ensure transparency, traceability and auditability in global supply chains. For the last Digital Forester podcast of 2024, come have a listen on how Chainparency’s flagship product GoTrace, the first-of-a-kind 100% turnkey SaaS blockchain-based platform that enables any enterprise or organization regardless of size to engage in end-to-end data collection and digital track & trace at scale, is being used in forestry today.
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Frank Mastrobuono is VP Sales, North America at Global Surface Intelligence (GSI) and describes himself as an inspired business development, management, and science professional with a passion for applying technological advances to management of our natural resources. GSI is a forestry and land classification analytics company with offices in both the UK and US. The company has deep roots in environmental sciences, harnessing next generation artificial intelligence to transform satellite, LiDAR and ground survey data into commercially valuable analytics. Come learn about GSI’s new cutting-edge product ForINT.
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Eli Jensen is the Owner of Ironwood Forestry and joins us from Flagstaff, Arizona. Ironwood Forestry is comprised of a dedicated team of professionals with a passion for forest management and innovation with the aim of revolutionizing the forestry industry. Come have a listen on what the concept of forest architecture means to Eli and his innovation projects dealing with the development of the Mark series of sprayers and his efforts to map thousands of acres using mobile lidar.
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Kevin Shorthouse is the Director of Northwest Solutions Inc. and joins us from Thunder Bay, ON. Since 2014, this Northern Ontario family-owned business has been dedicated to providing forestry, mining, and environmental services, along with expert training and communications consulting. Come learn how the company’s client-focused, results-oriented team leverages technology to provide innovative solutions to the natural resources sector.
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Rod Poirier is the Owner of JRP Solutions Ltd. and joins us from Courtenay, BC. As a Canadian owned and operated company that has been in business since 1992 and managed by forest professionals and software engineers, JRP Solutions currently serves customers across North America and Australia with its Plant Wizard, Forest OPS and SNAP! software solutions. Come have a listen about Rod’s career in forestry and what it took to develop these industry-leading software solutions.
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Alex van Gelder is the CEO and Founder of Clear Timber Analytics and joins us from the The Netherlands. Clear Timber Analytics provides accurate tools to help foresters with their daily duties by translating modern technology, such as high-resolution drone imagery and advanced data analytics, into reports that allow foresters to precisely target resources. Come have a listen to learn more about Clear Timber Analytics’ bark beetle detection, growing stock analysis, forest disturbance analysis, and harvest data visualization solutions.
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