SmartTree: Mobile Tree Inventory Device for Rapid Data Collection

Abstract

In order to make a tree inventory in forests it is essential to collect field data as quickly, efficiently and in a cost effective manner. Under the UN REDD framework or REDD+ (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation in developing countries), forests are now at the centre stage of international climate negotiations. To effectively implement REDD sustainable and transparent Monitoring Recording and Verification (MRV) systems need to be in place. There is also a need for more community based monitoring programs to capture ground based measurements quickly and efficiently. The data is currently being collected using traditional techniques, however, there is potential with Smartphone technology to capture data quicker and more effectively. In this research project the SmartTree application is developed with the objective of providing a proof -of -concept which integrates Smartphone and wireless cloud technology. This will allow local communities to collect tree data and send their results to others for their use. The article explores the design process, implementation, testing and evaluation of such an application. The research concludes that with modifications and refinements to increase usability and accuracy SmartTree could be used as data capture tool for tree inventories more effectively in the future.