REMOTE SENSING IN BARK BEETLE DAMAGE MONITORING
The challenge of early detection
Detecting early-stage bark beetle infestations from the air is challenging. By “early stage,” we refer to the point when beetles have successfully overcome a tree’s natural defenses and started reproducing beneath the bark. A few weeks after this stage, the tree dies, leading to changes in its spectral properties. These changes can be detected from above using remote sensing sensors mounted on drones, airplanes, or satellites. With sufficiently high-resolution imagery, even individual dead trees can be identified from the air.
In research settings, early stage approach has shown promising results. However, the timing of image capture is critical: to detect the earliest changes, imagery needs to be collected roughly every week. Missing this window can result in the initial stages of infestation going unnoticed. Moreover, tree weakening can be caused by factors other than bark beetles, which may lead to false alarms if imagery is used for operational decision-making.
Advantages of satellite monitoring
Satellite imagery is a highly effective tool due to its ability to cover vast areas, high repeatability, and cost efficiency. Furthermore, deep learning models can quickly analyze this data, detecting individual dead spruce trees with a high probability (over 95%). This timely information, combined with an understanding of the pest’s life cycle and reproductive timing, enables the rapid implementation of control measures. Such measures are critical for preventing and containing outbreaks before they escalate.
Dead spruce trees in a drone image and dead spruce trees in the same area in a false-color satellite image located using artificial intelligence.
Continuous annual monitoring provides significant value
Conducting a satellite survey at the end of summer allows forest owners to monitor areas around dead spruce trees and identify potential bark beetle infestations. Bark beetles prefer nearby weakened or dead trees for reproduction, making these high-risk zones particularly important to observe.
However, even a single annual survey provides valuable insight into how infestations have progressed over the season. By capturing the forest’s condition at this key moment, forest owners gain actionable information to guide management decisions and take preventive measures where needed. This yearly snapshot is an efficient and practical way to support forest health and mitigate the spread of bark beetle damage.
Access to reliable forest health data enables proactive management, reduces risks, and supports transparent, evidence-based decisions in mitigating forest disturbances. Read more about Forest Health analysis.