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Avant Case Study: Analysing Lidar Images for Environmental and Infrastructure Management

Updated: May 20

Avant is developing Computer Vision Solutions for Satellite and Drone images in several key areas; including vegetation identification, automated forest monitoring, and assessment of infrastructure damage such as downed trees, road slips, and debris accumulation.


vibrant, color-coded LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) image captured from a drone. The image vividly displays a forested area with trees in bright green, orange, and yellow tones indicating varying vegetation density and health. A clear blue area depicts a nearby body of water. Yellow lines with structures resembling power line towers run parallel through the scene, indicating infrastructure amidst the forested landscape.
LiDAR drone imagery showing vegetation density and power line infrastructure

While improving the accuracy and timeliness of data collection and analysis, Northland will be able to better protect its natural and built environments, ultimately leading to safer, more sustainable communities.


Application of Satellite and Drone Lidar Technologies in Forestry and Fauna


Avant is partnered with local organisations in Northland to ease a number of challenges for the region. Specifically, the focus on managing vegetation and potential impacts to surrounding infrastructure. Avant's initiative utilises high-resolution satellite and drone imagery to monitor extensive areas with precision and efficiency. This imagery provides vital data for:


Vegetation Identification and Forest Monitoring: Detailed images allow for the identification of various vegetation types and the health of forested areas, enabling continuous ecological monitoring.

Infrastructure Surveillance: Automated analysis helps quickly identify and assess damage from downed trees on roads and power lines, road slips, debris around bridges, and other infrastructure vulnerabilities.

Road and Vegetation Management: The imagery is used to detect where road washouts occur and where vegetation encroachment might threaten infrastructure, aiding in preventative maintenance and management.

Two satellite photographs (labelled a and b) showing a forest area analyzed for vegetation health. Both sections display a mix of deep red and green colors, where green patches indicate healthy vegetation and red areas suggest less healthy or different vegetation types. The images are enhanced to show detailed textural differences in the forest canopy, helping in identifying regions of concern or interest for environmental monitoring.
A Before and after image of vegetation changes surrounding power lines

Benefits our Region and Community


Employing these advanced imaging technologies offers multiple advantages for managing Northland’s environment and infrastructure:


Comprehensive Coverage: Satellite and drone technologies cover large, remote, or difficult-to-access areas, ensuring that no critical change goes unnoticed.

Rapid Response Capability: Computer vision models analyze the imagery data quickly, enabling faster responses to environmental or infrastructural changes, thus reducing potential damages or disruptions.

Cost Efficiency: Automating the monitoring processes reduces the manpower and costs associated with traditional surveillance methods, allowing for resources to be redirected towards other critical needs.

Environmental Conservation: By providing detailed data on vegetation and forest conditions, these technologies help in maintaining the biodiversity and natural beauty of Northland, supporting long-term environmental conservation strategies.

Future Outcomes for the Northland Region


The integration of satellite and drone imagery with computer vision analysis is on the way to significantly enhance the way Northland manages its natural landscapes and infrastructure. This technology-driven approach not only ensures quicker reactions to immediate issues but also supports sustainable management and conservation practices.


This collaboration between Avant and the community demonstrates a progressive step forward in using technology to support regional development and environmental stewardship.

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