DeadTrees.Earth is a project addressing the global issue of excessive tree mortality by utilizing drones, crowd-sourcing, Earth observation satellites and machine learning to map and analyze tree mortality. The initiative overcomes the lack of comprehensive georeferenced data by developing a dynamic database where users can upload and analyze aerial imagery to detect deadwood. This data is used to train models for large-scale satellite-based mapping of tree mortality. Building on these sensor technologies and data analytical tools, deadtrees.earth aims to map, analyze, and visualize tree deaths across different regions. This information is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change on forests and ecosystems, supporting conservation efforts, and informing policy decisions. The project aims to enhance global understanding of tree mortality patterns and provide an accessible resource for researchers and stakeholders.
| Associated researchers | Teja Kattenborn, Janusch Vajna-Jehle, Yongkai Wang , Mattis Pfenning |
| Collaborators | Clemens Mosig, Miguel Mahecha, Stephanie Horion, Hendrik Hartmann, Yuncheng Wang, Samuli Juntilla, hydrocode gmbH, Markus Hauck, Dominik Sperlich, Unique Landuse gmbH, and many others. |
| Duration | 2024-2026 |
| Funding | Ministry of Food, Rural Areas, and Consumer Protection Baden-Württemberg (MLR) via project PRIMA (Stärkung der Kooperationsstrukturen im Privatwald zur Begegnung der Herausforderungen des Klimawandels) |