🌲🤖 New in Virtual Plot: Chemical Thinning (eThinning) AI – ALPHA Release
We’ve just released an ALPHA Chemical Thinning (eThinning) AI model in TreeTools.ai Virtual Plot, supporting rapid post‑treatment stocking assessment using drone imagery.
Designed to detect remaining crop trees and distinguish them from chemically thinned stems showing stress or dieback, this new capability helps foresters evaluate the success of eThinning operations — particularly in steep or hard‑to‑access terrain.
This release is part of our collaboration with NZ Forest Growers Research – Precision Silviculture, and we’re inviting users to trial the model, share feedback, and help improve it using real‑world forestry data.
👉 Read the full article and learn how to get involved:
https://interpine.nz/introducing-chemical-thinning-ethinning-ai-in-virtual-plot-alpha-release/
#PrecisionSilviculture #ChemicalThinning #eThinning #DigitalForestry #AIinForestry #VirtualPlot #Interpine
🌲🚁 Power your surveys. Maximise your value.
Interpine is combining DJI Enterprise drone technology with our Virtual Plot forest inventory software to help forestry teams capture better data and turn it into real insight — faster.
As an authorised DJI reseller, we’re offering 50% off Virtual Plot when you purchase a DJI Matrice 4E Combo 2 through Interpine.
👉 Read more about the offer and how it can support your operations:
https://interpine.nz/power-your-forest-surveys-with-dji/
#ForestryInnovation #DJIEnterprise #DigitalForestry #VirtualPlot #ForestSurveys #djiglobal #dji #DJI
🌲 Using Computer Vision to Measure Log Volumes in the Log Yard 🤖📏
Accurately measuring log volumes in operational log yards is a long‑standing challenge for the forestry sector. As part of a postgraduate research project, Ethan Clapham (University of Exeter) explored whether modern computer vision and AI techniques could provide a practical, scalable alternative to traditional log scaling methods.
Working alongside the Interpine team, the project tested an image‑based approach using real log yard imagery captured during forestry operations. The research demonstrates how automated detection and geometric modelling can estimate log diameters and volumes directly from photographs — even under challenging real‑world conditions such as occlusion and variable lighting.
We were pleased to support this work by contributing real‑world data and industry expertise in log scaling and applied AI, helping bridge the gap between academic research and operational forestry.
#ForestryInnovation #ComputerVision #AIinForestry #DigitalForestry #LogScaling #ResearchInAction
🏃♀️🏃♂️ Interpine Whānau on the Move – Rotorua Marathon Weekend!
This weekend, several of our Interpine whānau are lacing up their running shoes and taking on the Rotorua Marathon. It’s fantastic to see members of the team putting their fitness to the test and embracing the challenge.
Alongside our runners, Interpine is also proud to be supporting the Kids’ Mini Marathon, helping encourage the next generation to get active and enjoy the buzz of this iconic Rotorua event.
Health and wellbeing are an important foundation for both productivity and enjoyment at work, and it’s great to see so many of the team taking this opportunity to get out there, stay active, and support the wider community.
Best of luck to everyone involved this weekend — we’ll be cheering you on! 👏💚
DJI L2 vs L3 LiDAR: What the Upgrade Means in the Forest 🌲🚁
At Interpine, we’re always focused on improving the quality and reliability of our forest data. Our latest analysis compares DJI’s Zenmuse L2 and L3 LiDAR sensors, flown over the same Pinus radiata stand under identical conditions, to see how the new generation performs in real forestry environments.
The results were clear.
✅ More consistent point density across complex terrain
✅ Significantly improved canopy penetration and ground detection
✅ Cleaner, more reliable terrain models with fewer data gaps
✅ Much greater tree‑level detail, including branch‑scale structure
While the L2 remains effective in simpler terrain, the L3 delivered uniform coverage and high‑quality data even on steep, variable ground and under dense canopy. This consistency reduces re‑flights, post‑processing effort, and uncertainty in downstream forest inventory outputs.
For forestry projects where terrain complexity and data confidence matter, the L3 represents a meaningful step forward in drone‑based LiDAR capability.
👉 Read the full technical comparison here:
https://interpine.nz/analysis-of-lidar-dji-l2-vs-l3-lidar-sensors/
Drone-based LiDAR is transforming how we measure and understand our forests. It’s one of the fastest and most effective ways to collect detailed forest inventory and planning data.
From small woodlots to full forest estates, Interpine’s combination of modern LiDAR sensors, beyond‑line‑of‑sight drone operations, and advanced communication systems sets our team apart as sector leaders.
Paired with our SilvaCloud and TreeTools.ai analysis suite, we deliver fast, accurate, and scalable insights—making our end‑to‑end capability second to none.
TreeTools SilvaCloud
https://treetools.ai/silva-cloud-product/
Interpine Drone LiDAR Services
https://interpine.nz/elevating-our-drone-services-with-dji-zenmuse-l3-lidar/
New Software Update: Virtual Plot Professional v2.15
It’s been a busy month for the TreeTools team, and we’re excited to share another significant update to Virtual Plot Professional. You can now conduct forest inventory stocking plots with your drone more efficiently than ever—powered by the latest advances in artificial intelligence.
What’s New in Version 2.15?
Target Stocking & Tolerance Reporting
Set your target stocking levels and tolerance ranges to receive clear, effective reporting on the percentage of plots that fall under, on, or over your target.
Enhanced Manual Refinement
Add meaningful context to each plot by tagging “verified unstocked” or “invasive weed issue”. These additional insights help strengthen both reporting accuracy and on‑ground forest management decisions.
Start Your AI Tree Detection Model Labelling Now
Don’t yet have an AI model trained for your tree species? No problem. Simply choose not to apply any existing AI models, and Virtual Plot will still calibrate your imagery and generate virtual plots ready for your own manual labelling using the REFINE tool. Once you’ve completed your labelled dataset, reach out to the team and share your project folder, and our team can assess it for training a new species‑specific model to add to Virtual Plot.
👉 Explore the new tutorial and start leveraging AI for smarter forest inventory today:
https://treetools.ai/tutorial-virtualplot/
👉 Try it out for as little as $38/month.
https://lnkd.in/efEJJWFf
Extending Drone Capabilities: Interpine’s BVLOS Advantage
Beyond Line-of-Sight Operations Certification
At Interpine Innovation, we’re proud to operate under CAA Part 102 Certification, enabling us to fly drones Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS). This capability is a game-changer for our clients and the wider forestry and environmental sectors.
Why BVLOS Matters?
BVLOS operations allow drones to cover greater distances and access remote or hazardous areas without the limitations of maintaining direct visual contact. For our clients, this means:
Expanded Coverage: Survey large-scale forests, river systems, and infrastructure in a single flight.
Improved Efficiency: Reduce time and cost by minimising manual intervention and multiple take-off points.
Enhanced Safety: Keep crews out of dangerous terrain while still capturing critical data.
Leading with Innovation and Safety
Interpine continues to set the benchmark for safe, innovative drone solutions. Our BVLOS capability is backed by rigorous risk assessments, advanced navigation systems, and compliance with Civil Aviation Authority standards. This ensures every mission is not only efficient but also meets the highest safety requirements.
Driving the Future of Drone Technology
By extending the operational range of drones, we continue to unlock new possibilities for AI-driven analytics, environmental monitoring, and precision forestry. BVLOS is more than a certification—it’s a commitment to helping our clients achieve smarter, safer, and more sustainable outcomes.
Minister Profiles Drone Technology and AI for Biosecurity Success
At Interpine Innovation, we’re proud to have partnered in a groundbreaking trial that is transforming how New Zealand tackles one of its most persistent agricultural challenges: bovine tuberculosis (TB).
The government recently launched a trial in Central Otago to control possum populations—the primary carriers of bovine TB—using advanced drone technology combined with AI-driven detection systems. This initiative, led by OSPRI and supported by Biosecurity Minister Andrew Hoggard, represents a major step forward in eradicating the disease from cattle and deer herds.
Our Role in the Project
Interpine Innovation provided the drone operations and AI expertise that made this trial possible. By integrating thermal imaging, night vision and intelligent detection algorithms, our systems enabled teams to: Access remote, rugged terrain safely and efficiently, Detect possum populations, Pinpoint locations for targeted ground operations.
This approach reduces manual effort, accelerates decision-making, and ensures resources are deployed where they have the greatest impact.
Why It Matters
Bovine TB has long been a costly and stressful issue for farmers, with historical outbreaks causing significant economic and emotional strain. By leveraging technology, we’re helping to close the chapter on this disease and safeguard New Zealand’s farming future.
Looking Ahead
This trial is more than a technical achievement—it’s a proof point for how AI and drone technology can revolutionise biosecurity and environmental management. Interpine Innovation remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in forestry, agriculture, and sustainability.
https://www.ospri.co.nz/news/ospri-brings-drones-into-the-fight-against-bovine-tb
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/580409/government-trialling-new-drone-tech-in-push-to-eradicate-bovine-tb
https://www.odt.co.nz/rural-life/rural-life-other/drones-used-fight-against-bovine-tb
Big congratulations to the team!
It’s fantastic to see our work in large-scale AI detection recognised in these nation awards. We’re proud to have played a part in supporting the project to identify large woody debris across the Tairāwhiti region.
https://interpine.nz/award-winning-cyclone-recovery-backed-by-interpine-ai-woody-debris-assessment/
Elevating our Drone Services with DJI Zenmuse L3 LiDAR
We’re excited to announce a major leap forward for Interpine’s drone services team: the integration of the DJI Zenmuse L3 LiDAR sensor into our fleet. This upgrade represents a new era in precision forestry mapping and large-scale terrain analysis.
What This Means for Our Clients?
By upgrading to the DJI L3, Interpine can now deliver faster, more accurate, and more comprehensive forest mapping solutions at scale with our drone services. Whether you need inventory assessments, terrain modelling, or precision silviculture planning, our enhanced capabilities ensure data quality and operational efficiency at scale.
We have already been out collecting data over NZ's forests.
Find Out More: https://interpine.nz/elevating-our-drone-services-with-dji-zenmuse-l3-lidar/
Transforming Stockpile Measurement 🚁
At Interpine Innovation, we’re taking stockpile management to the next level. Our advanced drone and LiDAR technology delivers accurate measurements of wood chip piles, quarry stockpiles, and more—all in record time, with same-day volume reports.
✅ Precision & Accuracy – High-resolution aerial data or indoor LiDAR technology for reliable results.
✅ Efficiency – Faster measurements, reduced costs, and improved safety.
✅ Versatility – From forestry debris and chip piles to quarries—indoors or outdoors—we’ve got you covered. We use drones or handheld LiDAR scanning to suit any environment.
Say goodbye to manual measuring and hello to smarter, safer, and more sustainable solutions.
📩 Want to see how it works? Contact us today!
#Innovation #DroneTechnology #ForestrySolutions #Interpine #SmartForestry #QuarryManagement #Piles #LiDAR
