This summer, I had the privilege of visiting a stunning 150-acre private estate in Sussex to assist the landowner with an important land management project. It was a fascinating opportunity to combine drones with woodland stewardship.
The estate’s woodlands were a mix of dense growth and open spaces, but by late summer, the landowner wanted to assess the dead and dying trees. These trees can pose significant risks, from creating hazards for people and animals to disrupting the health of the surrounding ecosystem. Identifying them quickly and accurately was key to planning their removal and ensuring the woodlands could thrive for years to come.
In years gone by the landowner had asked a pilot friend to fly his small plane over the landscape and take photos from his film camera.
That’s where my drone came in.
Using the drone I was able to survey the woodlands with incredible precision. From the sky, patterns that might have been invisible from the ground became clear. The drone’s camera and sensors captured detailed images of the tree canopy, allowing us to pinpoint areas of stress, disease, and decay. This bird’s-eye view was instrumental in creating a comprehensive picture of the forest’s health.
Once the survey was complete, I worked closely with the landowner to had over the data develop a plan. Dead and dying trees will be marked for safe removal, and we discussed options for replenishment with native species to enhance biodiversity and resilience. It was incredibly rewarding to see how we could support this age-old process of caring for the land.
This project was a reminder of the powerful intersection between innovation and conservation. Drones are an incredible tool for land management, offering efficiency and accuracy that can transform how we care for large, complex landscapes. For this estate, the result won’t just a healthier woodland—it will be peace of mind that comes with knowing the land is being nurtured for future generations.
Working on this project was not just a professional highlight but also a personal joy. It’s always inspiring to see how technology can be harnessed to serve a purpose greater than itself, especially when it comes to preserving the natural world.
If you’re curious about how drones can assist with land management, feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to chat about ways to support healthy, sustainable landscapes.

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