The Digital Forester

Hosted by Kevin Lim

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May 2026

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Foresters that have embraced digital technologies to transform the business of forestry share their experiences and lessons learned in this podcast.

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June 15, 2026Episode 657 min

Bill Greer - Common Space

In this episode, Bill Greer, co-founder of Common Space, shares his unique journey from rowing to building humanitarian satellite constellations. We explore the evolution of geospatial data, the challenges of satellite imagery access, and how open data can revolutionize environmental and humanitarian efforts.Key Topics- Evolution of geospatial data from early days to today- Challenges in satellite imagery access and licensing- The role of open data in humanitarian and environmental efforts- Design and mission planning for satellite constellations- The impact of AI and machine learning in earth observation- Community engagement and building with local context- Balancing commercial and public good in satellite data- Future trends in space-based earth monitoringChapters01:18 Bill Greer's Unique Career Path05:07 Early Days of Geospatial Data09:53 Field Experiences and Their Impact12:26 The Role of Product Management in Geospatial Data13:39 The Importance of Spatial Resolution18:28 Challenges in Accessing Satellite Data21:44 Common Space: A Nonprofit Approach to Satellite Imagery24:40 Future Goals and Community Engagement of Common Space29:09 Innovations in Forestry Monitoring32:49 Challenges in Data Reliability and Access33:57 Utilization of Remote Sensing Data39:13 The Future of LiDAR in Remote Sensing42:59 The Role of AI in Earth Observation48:17 Local Context in Data Interpretation49:00 Carbon Verification and Earth Observation51:59 The Community's Role in Advancing Technology

May 26, 2026Episode 555 min

Brian Huberty - Minnesota Forestry Association

In this in-depth interview, Brian Huberty, President of the Minnesota Forestry Assocation, shares his extensive experience at the intersection of forestry, GIS, and remote sensing. He discusses technological advancements, challenges in data adoption, and the future of geospatial tools in environmental management.Key Topics- History of remote sensing in forestry- Technological advancements in satellite imagery and LiDAR- Challenges in data adoption and infrastructure- Future of AI and machine learning in geospatial analysis- Role of public and private sectors in resource managementChapters00:00 Introduction to the Digital Forester Podcast02:43 Brian Huberty's Journey in Forestry and GIS12:35 Technological Advancements in Forestry24:50 The State of Remote Sensing in Forestry43:35 The Minnesota Forestry Association and Shared Geo50:45 Legacy and Future Aspirations in Forestry

April 28, 2026Episode 458 min

Anton Holmström - Katam Technologies

Join Kevin Lim and Anton Holmström as they explore the transformative power of technology in forestry, from drones and AI to global trends and sustainability initiatives. Discover how Katam Technologies is revolutionizing forest management across the world.Key TopicsThe evolution of forestry technology and digitalizationThe role of AI and video analysis in forest measurementGlobal trends in forestry and digital transformationChallenges and opportunities in tropical forestryKatam Technologies' impact and future roadmapChapters00:00 Introduction to the Conversation01:16 Understanding Katam Technologies05:51 The Role of Psychology in Technology Adoption10:48 Forestry Landscape in Indonesia18:31 The Need for Modernization in Forestry22:34 Katam's Innovative Solutions for Forestry29:17 Data Integrity in Forestry Operations31:24 Challenges in Data Collection and Analysis33:34 Cost Reduction vs. Volume Increase in Forestry35:16 Transparency and Traceability in Data38:28 The Importance of Historical Data39:11 Pricing Models and Value Proposition40:21 Global Expansion and Market Insights43:14 Drivers of Adoption in New Markets46:29 Emerging Trends in Forestry Technology52:14 Diversifying Forestry Revenue Streams53:31 The Mission Behind Katam Technologies56:48 Future Vision for Forestry Management

March 26, 2026Episode 347 min

Dr. Amir Soleimani - TreeTrack

In this episode, Dr. Amir Soleimani, CEO and co-founder of TreeTrack, shares insights into innovative land restoration technology, the impact of wildfires, and the future of forestry. Discover how drone technology, seed pods, and AI are transforming ecological restoration efforts worldwide.Key Topics- TreeTrack's end-to-end ecosystem restoration model- The science and technology behind proprietary seed pods- The role of AI, GIS, and satellite monitoring in reforestation- Challenges and opportunities in wildfire-affected land restoration- Building trust with large institutional partners and First NationsChapters00:00 Introduction and Setup03:03 Overview of TreeTrack and Its Mission03:54 Technology and Forestry Challenges03:58 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest04:57 Technical Difficulties and Audio Setup05:21 Overview of TreeTrack and Its Mission05:23 Introduction to Dr. Amir Soleimani and TreeTrack10:47 The Journey to TreeTrack: Amir's Background16:21 TreeTrack's Mission: End-to-End Land Restoration20:04 Innovative Seed Pod Technology26:03 Addressing Wildfire Challenges with Technology30:17 Integrating AI and Data for Restoration36:21 Partnerships and Community Engagement39:30 Building Trust with Institutional Partners42:22 The Role of Accelerators in Startup Success46:57 Vision for the Future: Ecosystem Transformation49:03 Memorable Experiences in Nature50:49 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

February 25, 2026Episode 255 min

Carlos Albuquerque - INFLOR

In this conversation, Kevin Lim interviews Carlos Albuquerque, CEO of INFLOR, discussing his journey from computer science to forestry, the unique aspects of Brazilian forestry, and the evolution of INFLOR as a leading forest management system. They explore the integration of technology in forestry, the challenges of workforce shortages, and the future of the industry, including the impact of AI and automation. Carlos emphasizes the importance of collaboration and creating an ecosystem for innovation in forest management.Takeaways- Carlos has a background in computer science and joined INFLOR in 2008.- Brazilian forestry focuses on short cycle forests, primarily eucalyptus.- INFLOR was created to manage the entire forest chain from planting to delivery.- The company has grown to about 120 employees, primarily in Brazil.- Technology has evolved significantly in forestry, improving efficiency and data management.- AI is underutilized in forestry, with potential for greater application.- The integration of ERP systems is crucial for effective forest management.- INFLOR offers a modular approach to its forest management system.- Workforce challenges exist in Brazil, similar to other regions.- Company culture at INFLOR emphasizes employee well-being and collaboration.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Carlos Albuquerque and INFLOR03:39 Carlos's Journey into Forestry07:53 Understanding Brazilian Forestry10:54 The Evolution of INFLOR14:21 Global Perspectives on Forest Management Systems17:01 INFLOR's Growth and Workforce18:15 Key Moments in Forestry Technology22:46 The Role of Technology in Brazilian Forestry24:23 Integrating ERP with Forest Management27:09 Modular Approach to Forest Management29:40 Talent and Workforce Challenges in Forestry31:39 Company Culture at INFLOR34:53 Looking Ahead: The Future of Forestry35:22 Impact of Global Politics on Brazilian Forestry37:48 Artificial Intelligence in Forestry41:12 The Future of Automation in Forestry49:50 Advice for the Next Generation of Foresters

January 29, 2026Episode 155 min

Derrick Emsley - veritree

In this conversation, Kevin Lim interviews Derrick Emsley, CEO of veritree and co-founder of tentree. They discuss Derrick's entrepreneurial journey, the founding of tentree, and the transition to veritree, a technology platform designed to enhance reforestation efforts. Derrick shares insights into the challenges of verifying tree planting projects and the innovative technology veritree employs, including geospatial analysis and blockchain for transparency. The discussion highlights the importance of trust in environmental initiatives and the potential for technology to drive impactful change in sustainability. In this conversation, Derrick Emsley discusses the challenges and opportunities in the reforestation sector, particularly focusing on verification standards and the importance of transparency. He highlights successful projects in Kenya and Canada, emphasizing the impact of partnerships. Derrick also shares insights on the role of AI in enhancing reforestation efforts and the significance of understanding the core problems in the industry. He concludes with advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, stressing the importance of being problem-focused rather than solution-obsessed.Takeaways- Derrick Emsley started his entrepreneurial journey at a young age.- tentree was created to connect consumers with tree planting initiatives.- veritree emerged from the need for better verification in reforestation.- Technology plays a crucial role in monitoring and verifying tree planting.- Blockchain can enhance trust in environmental projects.- Derrick's background in Saskatchewan influenced his work ethic and values.- The importance of community support in entrepreneurship.- veritree's technology connects funders with restoration projects.- The role of geospatial technology in project design and implementation.- Trust is essential for the success of digital environmental products. Verification standards can create challenges in reforestation.- Transparency is key to overcoming verification issues.- Successful partnerships can lead to significant impact.- Traveling to project sites enhances understanding and motivation.- Diverse reforestation initiatives include mangroves and agroforestry.- AI can streamline workflows and improve data insights.- Setting ambitious goals can drive team motivation.- Quality of tree planting is as important as quantity.- Understanding the problem is crucial for entrepreneurs.- Real-world experience is essential for identifying industry challenges.Chapters00:00 Introduction to veritree and tentree02:56 Derrick Emsley's Early Journey and Entrepreneurial Roots06:06 The Genesis of tentree and Its Impact09:11 Transitioning to veritree: The Need for Technology12:01 Building Technology for Reforestation15:00 Understanding veritree's Technology and Applications17:52 Customer Engagement and Project Implementation21:09 The Role of Blockchain in veritree24:02 Future of Reforestation and Technology27:52 Navigating Verification Challenges in Reforestation33:00 Highlighting Successful Projects and Partnerships38:05 The Impact of Travel on Project Insights40:55 Exploring Diverse Reforestation Initiatives45:03 The Role of AI in Enhancing Reforestation Efforts48:45 Scaling Goals: Challenges and Opportunities51:57 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

August 18, 2021Episode 556 min

Max Nova - NCX (FKA SilviaTerra)

Max Nova, COO of NCX (FKA SilviaTerra), shares with us how he met Zach Parisa, CEO of NCX, at the Yale School of Forestry and how that friendship and collaboration would lead to the development of the Plot Hound and CruiseBoost technology, the first ever high resolution forest map of the contiguous United States (powered by Microsoft AI for Earth), and the decision to raise Seed and Series A funding to pivot and focus on their vision of a natural capital exchange where forests are valued not only for timber but their ecosystem services as well. Max reminds us that there is only one forest carbon project and it is called Planet Earth.

April 11, 2023Episode 558 min

Markus Drugge and Jacob Hjalmarsson - Arboair

Markus Drugge (CEO) and Jacob Hjalmarsson (COO) of Arboair join us on this podcast. Many forest owners today lack forest data at a detailed level. At the same time, forest management could be conducted both more profitably and sustainably if we had high-quality digital decision-making data for the prevailing state of the forest. Come have a listen to learn how Arboair uses AI-driven image analysis to produce sharp decision-making data for forest owners.

June 20, 2023Episode 856 min

Steven Hawkes - LandVest

Steven Hawkes is the Vice President of Forest Resources at LandVest and joins us from Concord, New Hampshire, USA. Steven has been responsible for the oversight of a team of highly qualified foresters, GIS technicians, and administrative staff who provide a full suite of professional forest management services on over 2,000,000 acres of privately-held timberland across the Mid-Atlantic and New England. Come have a listen on a broad range of topics from technology to innovation to people from one of the leaders in the forest industry.

October 26, 2021Episode 1054 min

Simon Ackerman - Stellenbosch University

Joining us from South Africa, in between writing his Ph.D. thesis, Simon Ackerman, CTO of Forest Operations Research at Stellenbosch University, shares with us his knowledge and experiences as it relates to improving the productivity and performance of cut-to-length (CTL) forest machinery for operational efficiency gains. The importance of training and having a skilled workforce to operate forest machinery is highlighted, as well as the shift towards more automation.