The Spanish pilot of the TREEADS project occured between November 25th and 28th, 2024, focusing on advanced wildfire management solutions and post-fire ecosystem restoration. Hosted across various locations in Pedro Bernardo, Arenas de San Pedro, and Piedralaves, the event showcased innovative technological tools and methodologies designed to prevent, respond to, and recover from wildfire incidents.

Activities began on November 25th with an emphasis on wildfire prevention and preparation. The day opened with the presentation of the TREEADS project and its technologies, including the WebGIS prevention tool and the Agroforestry Index and Detail Forest Map, which were instrumental in identifying high-risk areas. Preliminary results from daily fire forecasting models were also discussed, providing stakeholders with real-time risk assessment capabilities.

At this phase, other tools considered included daily fire forecasting, ForestFire Simulator, and insurance models.

Presentation of TREEADS tools, PP phase2

Later, UAVs equipped with LiDAR cameras were deployed, demonstrating their ability to map forest areas accurately. This was followed by presentations on advanced wildfire simulators and insurance models to mitigate fire-related economic impacts.

Deployment UAVs with LIDAR camera using CCC – ACCELI / USAL

On November 26th, attention shifted to wildfire detection and response, with practical demonstrations held at Arenas de San Pedro. A biomass-controlled burn exercise allowed participants to observe the Command and Control Center in action, showcasing the real-time coordination of resources. UAVs equipped for hotspot extinction and aerial surveillance played a central role in fire containment demonstrations, highlighting their precision and effectiveness. These technologies significantly improved response times and reduced risks for firefighters during active wildfire scenarios.

Hot spot aerial surveillance (ACCELI/USAL)

Hot spot extinction with UAVs (EAC Whisper)

The CERBERUS UAV was equipped with the FLIR DUO PRO-R sensor, enabling simultaneous RGB and thermal imaging. This advanced thermal sensor showcased its ability to perform hot spot detection with exceptional clarity and accuracy, providing critical data for situational awareness and operational planning.

The pilot showcased CERBERUS’s ability to integrate seamlessly with advanced detection algorithms, enabling the identification of fire hotspots even in challenging terrains. The FLIR sensor, paired with the UAV’s on-board computational capabilities, ensured rapid processing and transmission of data to ground control stations. This real-time capability underscores CERBERUS’s readiness for deployment in active wildfire scenarios, where timely information is crucial for effective decision-making.

CERBERUS equipped with the FLIR DUO PRO R sensor performing Hot Spot Detection (ACCELI)

The third day, November 27th, focused on exploring technologies for wildfire preparation using augmented and virtual reality tools. Participants gathered at Piedralaves, where AR helmets were tested for enhancing situational awareness and communication among first responders.

AR Helmet Test (8BELLS)

Following this, a VR training session provided an immersive environment for fire management training, allowing stakeholders to practice real-world scenarios in a risk-free digital environment.

VR Training Test (SIMAVI)

The same day, the demonstration of the High Altitude Platform (HAP) aerostatic balloon took place. This deployment marked an innovative approach for extended aerial surveillance and wildfire monitoring. The HAP aerostatic balloon, developed and deployed by B2SPACE, served as a critical component in providing high-resolution aerial mapping and real-time monitoring capabilities during wildfire management exercises.

The deployment process in Piedralaves was carefully planned to ensure seamless integration with other TREEADS technologies. Equipped with EO/IR cameras, the balloon was launched to significant altitudes, offering a wide-area view of the surrounding forests. Its advanced imaging systems captured high-definition visuals and thermal data, enabling accurate detection of potential fire hotspots and providing essential insights for situational awareness.

The HAP balloon’s ability to remain airborne for extended periods offered a unique advantage over traditional aerial surveillance methods such as UAVs. It effectively bridged the gap between satellite monitoring and low-altitude drone operations, providing a multi-layered data collection approach. The collected data was relayed in real-time to the Command and Control Center (CCC), where it was visualized alongside inputs from other aerial assets like drones and ground-based sensors. This integration demonstrated the balloon’s capability to enhance coordination and decision-making in wildfire management.

The process included a detailed demonstration of the balloon’s launch, stabilization, and data transmission capabilities. Stakeholders observed its performance, noting its stability, endurance, and capacity to monitor extensive areas without interruption. The balloon’s deployment validated its potential to support early warning systems, improve response times, and contribute to wildfire prevention strategies in high-risk zones.

Demonstration of the HAP aerostatic balloon deployment process (B2S) equipped with IR/EO cameras

The final day, November 28th, centered on post-fire restoration and adaptation in the Pedro Bernardo region. The event began with the presentation of the Burn Area Mapping Tool and the Decision Support System (DSS), a tool developed to assist in decision-making for post-fire restoration strategies. The highlight of the day was the practical demonstration of forest restoration using seedballs and Seed Container Capsules (SCCs) deployed via UAVs.

Restoration with seedballs thrown via UAV using the CCC (ACCELI/LAMMC/CERTH)

These biodegradable capsules, containing locally sourced seeds and soil-enriching microorganisms, were distributed over a degraded forest area, illustrating a cost-effective and scalable solution for reforestation. The UAV-based seeding mechanism showcased its precision, covering a 5000 square meter area efficiently. The day concluded with discussions on field observations, seed viability, and future improvements for large-scale implementation.

The Spanish pilot successfully demonstrated an integrated approach to wildfire management, from prevention and rapid response to long-term forest restoration. Combining advanced technologies like UAVs, augmented and virtual reality tools, and biological innovations such as seed-enabled capsules, the event highlighted sustainable solutions to combat the increasing threat of wildfires. These activities established a robust foundation for scaling similar initiatives across other fire-prone regions.

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Published On: January 7th, 2025Categories: What's New