5G Forest Watcher project wins Saxon Digital Prize in the “Society” category

The 5G Forest Watcher project in the Görlitz district won first place, worth 25,000 euros, at the 2nd Saxon Digital Prize in the “Society” category. The prize was awarded by Saxon State Minister Martin Dulig as part of the “forum sachsen digital” organized by the Saxon State Ministry for Economic Affairs, Labor and Transport (SMWA) in the exhibition and event park in Löbau.

The "forum sachsen digital" brought together numerous experts, companies, student groups and interested parties to exchange information about the latest developments and trends in the field of digitalization.

During the trade fair, the project team presented its pioneering technologies and solutions for monitoring and maintaining forest health as an exhibitor. The 5G Forest Watcher project uses AI-supported evaluation of real-time data to contribute to climate-adapted forest management, for example through the early detection of fires or pest infestations. This is proof of how innovative technologies can actively contribute to solving social challenges.

Background 5G Forest Guardian:

As part of the 5x5G model region, the Görlitz district developed a concept for 5G application scenarios in the areas of sensor development and networking, as well as drone control, in 2020. The project has been in the implementation phase since the beginning of 2022. Henry Poppitz is involved in the project for ENO .

In spring 2023, a first test fire was carried out under controlled conditions at the Oberlausitz military training area. This made it possible to gain insights for the further development of the algorithms when using artificial intelligence for the gas sensors. Since a large number of data sets are required to align the sensors and create the associated AI modules, several smaller, controlled test fires are also carried out. The same sensors that are trained to detect smoke gas should also enable the detection of bark beetle pheromones. To date, tests have been carried out in the laboratory. Test operations in a real forest environment are also planned this year. In autumn 2023, high-resolution camera technology was installed on the Rietschen and Brand fire lookout towers, which provides image or video material in real time in several spectral ranges of light. All of these results, as well as the data from the soil sensors, are collected on a central server. With the help of AI algorithms, possible anomalies can be identified and dangerous situations can be identified at an early stage. Work is currently underway to develop the algorithms necessary for the AI ​​modules. They are implemented step by step in the central server system. All project participants meet quarterly to present the respective work statuses, discuss them professionally and coordinate the next activities. Work is carried out in three groups: AI/ZKMS (artificial intelligence algorithms / central crisis management server), UAV (drones) and data acquisition including ground sensors.

The following partners from science and industry are involved in this project: Brandenburg Technical University of Cottbus, Fraunhofer IOSB-AST, Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, Leibniz Institute for Innovative Microelectronics (IHP), University of Rostock, Federal Forestry Agency of Lausitz, Development Company Niederschlesische Oberlausitz mbH, exelonix GmbH, Geotechnik, Geoinformatik & Service GmbH, Telekom, Oberlausitz military training area and Vodafone.

Further information about the 5G Forest Guardian project can be found https://digitaler.landkreis.gr/

5G Forest Watcher is a three-year project funded by the Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport.

Cover photo: the “5G Forest Watchers” team, in the middle: ENO project manager Henry Poppitz