Forestry in the digital decade
Published On
28 May 2026
The concept of forestry may conjure up images of coppicing and swinging axes. But it’s so much more high-tech nowadays. Here, Sappi explains two technologies that are integral to modern-day forestry.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) go hand-in-hand with forestry, as it enables forest managers to track and tackle any changes or threats to forest health, as well as carry out any mapping or analysis with detailed spatial data. Sappi offers comprehensive GIS services in South Africa that enables businesses to make informed decisions and closely manage their forest resources
How well do you know what GIS can do for forestry?
What is this?
For effective land use, resource and environmental management, it is essential to classify vegetation types accurately. Spatial data sources and processes like remote sensing imagery, image texture variables, canopy height models, climate and soil data can be used to accurately and efficiently classify and predict this vegetation classification over a large area. This classification shows vegetation classes with percentages and area per management unit.
What is this?
Healthy vegetation is shown in bright red; a normal image wouldn't be able to capture this. Vegetation health is key to managing crop conditions and estimating yield. Vegetation that look healthy infield could be under stress and reflect less light in a spectrum that only specialised camera sensors can detect. This helps monitor pest and disease infestations, drought, and quantify the effects of snow and fire damage on crops.
How does this image help map risks?
This map shows high frost risk areas in red, using remote sensing and advanced algorithms.
What is LiDAR processing?
Aerial LiDAR (light detection and ranging) is a mapping technology using pulses of light from a sensor mounted on an aircraft to map earth's terrain in 3D. Sappi Sphere in South Africa has extensive experience in processing LiDAR data and generating derived products, such as aspect, canopy height, contours, elevation, ground roughness, hill shade, road bank heights, slopes, and tree counting; bringing one-dimensional maps and images to life in 3D splendour. LiDAR processing is important to forestry because these 3D models enable detailed measurements of tree height, volume, density, biomass which can then inform decisions for forest and fire management management, wildlife conservation, etc.
In addition, Sappi’s precision forestry team co-developed a new system with Saiccor Mill to enhance chip pile volume measurement, contributing to improved efficiency and responsible production. Instead of just relying on operator experience or drone technology (latter also has limitations due to weather conditions and manual operation requirements), the teams used terrestrial LiDAR scanners. These provide consistent, reliable data, allowing for on-demand measurements regardless of weather or time of day. The system was cross-referenced with drone surveys to ensure accuracy.
Sappi has over 40 years of experience in researching and improving the genetic properties of trees.
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