Field Ops: A Day in the Life
Explore the dynamic world of drone reforestation through the eyes of Roshen Abrahamson, our field ops veteran and Logistics Generalist. In this interview, we learn what life is really like in the bush, as well as the strategic planning and logistical challenges involved in using our high-tech drones to restore ecosystems.
Roshen holds a Bachelor’s in Business Administration, an MBA in Marketing and Operations, and Certificates in Freight Forwarding and Logistics and International Business Management.
What does a typical day look like for you in the field?
My day in the field starts at the base camp with a freshly brewed cup of coffee followed by a team briefing on how to attack the day’s planting. Afterwards, the team moves to a drone launch point with all the amenities/resources required for the day’s operation. We typically utilise maximum available daylight and at dusk, the convoy secures the DLP (Drone Launch Point) and returns to the base camp.
Can you walk us through the process of planting a tree using Flash Forest’s technology?
Planting a tree using Flash Forest’s technology starts with our Plant Science team with vigorous R&D to continuously improve our pod technology. Flash Forest uses biodegradable pods that contain seeds, nutrients, and other essential elements for seed germination. These pods are pre-loaded with seeds of native tree species that are best suited for the local environment. In the field, a small group consisting of an engineer, GIS specialist and Silviculturist work hand in hand to select suitable areas for reforestation based on factors such as soil quality, terrain, and accessibility. Using drones and other technology like QGIS and Python programming, the area to be reforested is mapped in detail, which helps in planning the planting strategy and selecting a Drone Launch point (DLP). A detailed flight plan is created to ensure precise coverage of the reforestation, and then drones equipped with specialized planting devices and GPS systems are prepared for deployment. The drones are deployed from a DLP and autonomously navigate the designated area. As the drone flies over the area, it dispenses the biodegradable pods containing the seeds. The drones are programmed to plant the seedpods at optimal depths and distances from each other to maximize growth potential. While the drone is in the air, a crew member ensures that a new set of batteries, pods, maintenance tools and anything necessary for the next flight is ready to go so that the planting process is always in motion.
How many trees can the field ops team plant in one day?
This depends upon the weather and how many drones are used by the team but on an Ideal day the field ops team can plant 100,000 trees with just 2 drones.
How fast do the drones deploy seedpods?
The output rate is ~19/s + exit velocity is ~ 150 ft/s. Which is very fast! Our engineering team is currently developing a payload system which will allow a pilot to control the speed of deploying pods. I am excited about this as this will help in optimal spreading and ratios of different pod species in the field.
How is automation or AI used in the planting process?
AI is used to select the best planting areas based on several factors such as elevation, precipitation, etc. We automate the selection of planting locations using deep learning models that analyze satellite imagery to assess post-burn conditions and identify the best places to plant. This is where the GIS team of Flash Forest stands out.
What are some of the biggest challenges you face in the field?
Mother Nature! As a drone reforestation company, it was challenging to operate amid a geomagnetic storm, Heavy gusts ranging from 45-60 km/h, and 4 days of continuous rain.
Do you have a memorable experience or story from the field that you can share?
We were working in the True North region of Saskatchewan this spring. I never imagined I could witness Northern lights multiple times within 5 weeks of stay. The geomagnetic storm of May 2024 offered a unique opportunity to witness one of the brightest aurora borealis.
How does the team ensure safety in the field?
Our team is capable of performing a variety of protocols including but not limited to Risk Assessment, mastering the Advanced Pilot Training Program, Weather Monitoring, Flight Planning, Ensuring operations comply with environmental regulations, Establishing protocols for responding to emergencies, Maintaining clear communication among team members, stakeholders, and relevant authorities throughout the operation, protecting data collected during drone operations to maintain privacy and prevent unauthorized access and conducting post-operation reviews to identify lessons learned and implement improvements to safety protocols and procedures.
How does the field ops team communicate with other departments back home while you’re out of cell service range?
It is obvious that our team typically works in areas where there is no cell reception but with the help of Starlink Internet service, it is easy to communicate with other department.
What is the most rewarding part of your job?
Working at Flash Forest allows me to engage in meaningful and purposeful work. Planting trees and restoring ecosystems can be deeply rewarding, knowing that my efforts contribute to a healthier planet and a sustainable future.
What’s your favourite tree species?
Easy, it’s a Coconut tree. It is an evergreen tree but at the same time, I also like Black Spruce, a conifer tree which reminds me of the Himalayan ranges. With a small team of 5 Flash Forest employees this spring in Canada we planted 5,580,11 Black spruce trees.
Thanks for joining us on our departmental highlight journey!
