Workshop on Advanced Forest Monitoring Techniques

Sayimane, Sirsi – April 26, 2025: An exciting new chapter in ecological research opened with the workshop on Advanced Forest Monitoring Techniques held on April 26, 2025, at Sayimane, Sirsi. Organized by the Department of Environment Sciences, Kuvempu University and the University of Uppsala, Sweden, in association with Sahyadri Wildlife and Forest Conservation Trust (SWIFT), this initiative aimed to equip young scientists with practical skills in long-term forest monitoring. The focus on Advanced Forest Monitoring Techniques made it clear from the start that this workshop was not just about theory but about real-world applications critical for forest conservation.

Hands-on Field Training in Advanced Forest Monitoring Techniques

The workshop provided intense, field-based training led by a distinguished team:

• Prof. Sharath Ananthamurthy, Vice Chancellor of Kuvempu University, inaugurated the event. He emphasized the urgent need for long-term forest monitoring to conserve biodiversity.
• Prof. Yogendra K., from the Department of Environment Sciences, offered academic support.
• Mr. Raghavendra H. V., Site Coordinator, handled logistics and mentoring.
• Mr. Balachandra Hegde, ecologist from SWIFT, shared rich insights into the local Western Ghats ecology.
• Dr. Rakesh Tiwari, from Uppsala University, introduced portable, high-precision equipment essential for modern forest monitoring.

Moreover, the experts demonstrated practical applications of Advanced Forest Monitoring Techniques, ensuring that students not only learned but also practiced these crucial methods.

Field Visits and Application of Advanced Forest Monitoring Techniques

Participants visited the long-term ecological monitoring site at Hosagadde, managed by NCBS Bengaluru. There, students learned to:

• Measure tree growth systematically
• Monitor microclimates using field loggers
• Study species dynamics across varied topography

In addition, students gained hands-on experience with photosynthesis measurement at the leaf level, using cutting-edge technology. Dr. Tiwari emphasized why understanding photosynthesis is vital in the age of climate change. He also linked it back to global challenges, such as the reliance on fossil fuels.

The field sessions ensured participants understood how Advanced Forest Monitoring Techniques help track ecological changes over time.

Building Future Experts in Forest Monitoring

The interdisciplinary, international approach aimed to build capacity among early-career researchers. By integrating theory and practice, the workshop bridged the gap between classroom learning and real-world conservation work.

Prof. Sharath Ananthamurthy stated, “We must equip the next generation with tools, knowledge, and critical thinking to tackle today’s ecological challenges.” His words captured the spirit of promoting Advanced Forest Monitoring Techniques among young ecologists. The organizers announced plans to make the workshop an annual event, expanding it to other sensitive ecosystems across the Western Ghats.

A Global Step Toward Better Conservation Practices

The day concluded with a lively group discussion. Students reflected on how they could apply Forest Monitoring Techniques in their research projects. Certificates of participation were distributed, and participants were invited to collaborate with future initiatives by Kuvempu University and SWIFT.

Furthermore, this workshop strengthened Indo-Swedish academic ties, promoting a global, united front in the fight for environmental conservation.

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