The Digital Forester

Hosted by Kevin Lim

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Jun 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 monitoring Chapters 01:18 Bill Greer's Unique Career Path 05:07 Early Days of Geospatial Data 09:53 Field Experiences and Their Impact 12:26 The Role of Product Management in Geospatial Data 13:39 The Importance of Spatial Resolution 18:28 Challenges in Accessing Satellite Data 21:44 Common Space: A Nonprofit Approach to Satellite Imagery 24:40 Future Goals and Community Engagement of Common Space 29:09 Innovations in Forestry Monitoring 32:49 Challenges in Data Reliability and Access 33:57 Utilization of Remote Sensing Data 39:13 The Future of LiDAR in Remote Sensing 42:59 The Role of AI in Earth Observation 48:17 Local Context in Data Interpretation 49:00 Carbon Verification and Earth Observation 51:59 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 management Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Digital Forester Podcast 02:43 Brian Huberty's Journey in Forestry and GIS 12:35 Technological Advancements in Forestry 24:50 The State of Remote Sensing in Forestry 43:35 The Minnesota Forestry Association and Shared Geo 50:45 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 Topics The evolution of forestry technology and digitalization The role of AI and video analysis in forest measurement Global trends in forestry and digital transformation Challenges and opportunities in tropical forestry Katam Technologies' impact and future roadmap Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Conversation 01:16 Understanding Katam Technologies 05:51 The Role of Psychology in Technology Adoption 10:48 Forestry Landscape in Indonesia 18:31 The Need for Modernization in Forestry 22:34 Katam's Innovative Solutions for Forestry 29:17 Data Integrity in Forestry Operations 31:24 Challenges in Data Collection and Analysis 33:34 Cost Reduction vs. Volume Increase in Forestry 35:16 Transparency and Traceability in Data 38:28 The Importance of Historical Data 39:11 Pricing Models and Value Proposition 40:21 Global Expansion and Market Insights 43:14 Drivers of Adoption in New Markets 46:29 Emerging Trends in Forestry Technology 52:14 Diversifying Forestry Revenue Streams 53:31 The Mission Behind Katam Technologies 56:48 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 Nations Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Setup 03:03 Overview of TreeTrack and Its Mission 03:54 Technology and Forestry Challenges 03:58 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 04:57 Technical Difficulties and Audio Setup 05:21 Overview of TreeTrack and Its Mission 05:23 Introduction to Dr. Amir Soleimani and TreeTrack 10:47 The Journey to TreeTrack: Amir's Background 16:21 TreeTrack's Mission: End-to-End Land Restoration 20:04 Innovative Seed Pod Technology 26:03 Addressing Wildfire Challenges with Technology 30:17 Integrating AI and Data for Restoration 36:21 Partnerships and Community Engagement 39:30 Building Trust with Institutional Partners 42:22 The Role of Accelerators in Startup Success 46:57 Vision for the Future: Ecosystem Transformation 49:03 Memorable Experiences in Nature 50:49 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. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Carlos Albuquerque and INFLOR 03:39 Carlos's Journey into Forestry 07:53 Understanding Brazilian Forestry 10:54 The Evolution of INFLOR 14:21 Global Perspectives on Forest Management Systems 17:01 INFLOR's Growth and Workforce 18:15 Key Moments in Forestry Technology 22:46 The Role of Technology in Brazilian Forestry 24:23 Integrating ERP with Forest Management 27:09 Modular Approach to Forest Management 29:40 Talent and Workforce Challenges in Forestry 31:39 Company Culture at INFLOR 34:53 Looking Ahead: The Future of Forestry 35:22 Impact of Global Politics on Brazilian Forestry 37:48 Artificial Intelligence in Forestry 41:12 The Future of Automation in Forestry 49:50 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. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to veritree and tentree 02:56 Derrick Emsley's Early Journey and Entrepreneurial Roots 06:06 The Genesis of tentree and Its Impact 09:11 Transitioning to veritree: The Need for Technology 12:01 Building Technology for Reforestation 15:00 Understanding veritree's Technology and Applications 17:52 Customer Engagement and Project Implementation 21:09 The Role of Blockchain in veritree 24:02 Future of Reforestation and Technology 27:52 Navigating Verification Challenges in Reforestation 33:00 Highlighting Successful Projects and Partnerships 38:05 The Impact of Travel on Project Insights 40:55 Exploring Diverse Reforestation Initiatives 45:03 The Role of AI in Enhancing Reforestation Efforts 48:45 Scaling Goals: Challenges and Opportunities 51:57 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

August 6, 2024Episode 1259 min

Eli Jensen - Ironwood Forestry

Eli Jensen is the Owner of Ironwood Forestry and joins us from Flagstaff, Arizona. Ironwood Forestry is comprised of a dedicated team of professionals with a passion for forest management and innovation with the aim of revolutionizing the forestry industry. Come have a listen on what the concept of forest architecture means to Eli and his innovation projects dealing with the development of the Mark series of sprayers and his efforts to map thousands of acres using mobile lidar.

December 5, 2023Episode 1558 min

Donn Downey - Forest Metrix

Donn is a consulting forester, frequent speaker at forestry workshops and conferences, and developer of the Forest Metrix timber cruising software. Forest Metrix sprang from the woods of central Vermont with its development driven by foresters and the forest industry. Forest Metrix is deployed with state agencies, some of the largest TIMOs and forest and arboriculture service companies, log buyers, and countless consulting foresters, arborists and ecological professionals. Come have a listen to Donn’s journey as a forester and entrepreneur, and his passion for solving problems and helping others.

March 12, 2024Episode 256 min

Preston Green - Miller Timber Services

Preston Green is the Assistant Vice President of cut-to-length (CTL) Systems at Miller Timber Services in Philomath, Oregon, USA where he responsible for harvesting management on a select number of harvesting teams, research and development of CTL innovations, and production analytics across a fleet of CTL equipment.

March 26, 2024Episode 359 min

Andre Cheung - Robotics Cats and Mike Ross and Rob Vernon - Indicium Dynamics

Andre Cheung is the Founder and CEO of Robotics Cats and joins us from Hong Kong with Mike Ross and Rob Vernon, Founder and CTO, and CEO, respectively, of Indicium Dynamics from Tasmania. Robotics Cats is a machine vision startup comprised of a team of talented engineers with diverse cultures focused on computer vision, AI, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. Indicium Dynamics is a full-service IoT and data integration solutions provider. Their low-code and affordable IoT solutions provide control over the collection, analysis, and display of data, optimising processes across a wide range of industries and organisations. Come have a listen about how Robotics Cats and Indicium Dynamics are collaborating on the XPRIZE Wildfire challenge.