From Drones to Data: The New AI Solution to Micronesia’s Agroforestry Challenges!

Micronesian agroforestry may get a boost, thanks to AI-powered drone scouting.

Drone and AI Training to Boost Agroforestry in Pohnpei

Last month, University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo researchers led by Ryan Perroy and Roberto Rodriguez conducted a ten-day drone and AI training workshop in Pohnpei, FSM. The training, part of a Pacific Islands Climate Adaptation Science Center (PI-CASC) project, provided local officials with hands-on experience using drones and AI for agroforestry monitoring. The project aims to improve the management of forest resources in remote Pacific Islands, where agroforestry supports food security and income.

Tackling Climate Change and Invasive Species

Agroforestry in Pacific Islands faces growing threats from climate change and invasive species like the coconut rhinoceros beetle. The project focuses on using drones and AI to gather detailed data on forest inventories and plant health. Participants learned to operate drones, process high-resolution imagery, and use AI to detect and monitor key plant species, contributing to climate change resilience in the region.

Expanding Monitoring Efforts

Though the workshop has concluded, participants will continue using drones to collect imagery of agroforestry plots. This data will be combined with satellite imagery for broader forest health assessments. Future workshops are planned for other FSM states, with Perroy set to expand the training to Yap and Kosrae.

(Visit PI-CASC for the full story)

*An AI tool was used to add an extra layer to the editing process for this story.