PALMWATCH PROJECT (2019, 2020, 2021)
The Red Palm Weevil Infection Detection with remote sensing research project, with a total budget of 300,285 euros, has obtained a grant of 250,285 euros from BELSPO FEDERAL SCIENCE POLICY, within the Belgian call RESEARCH PROGRAMME FOR EARTH OBSERVATION STEREO III, (SUPPORT TO EXPLOITATION AND RESEARCH IN EARTH OBSERVATION) CALL FOR PROPOSALS 2018.
This is a spin off project involving: the Belgian research institute VITO (Vlaamse Instelling voor Technologisch Onderzoek, NV), Wageningen University, Department of Environmental Science of the Netherlands and the ASSOCIATION STATION •
Objetives
- For PalmWatch, we will make an evaluation of the current remote sensing technologies, both airborne and spaceborne, for the monitoring of RPW infestations. We will build on existing expertise acquired from projects such as the recently ended Stereo III Hypertemp project (temporal monitoring of tree vitality/productivity in orchards), the DateGis project and the ongoing H2020 project on Pine Wilt Disease monitoring in Portugal.
- An evaluation will be made on the need of high temporal resolution to monitor the development of the disease over time, the spatial resolution to monitor individual trees and even leaves in detail, as well as the spectral resolution to distinguish RPW from other biotic and abiotic stressors. This will result in unprecedented datasets on the temporal changes of the palm tree physiological status and structural inherent characteristics to RPW infestation. An innovative RS monitoring system will be set-up for a non destructive, effective detection of RPW infestations, bearing in mind an operational service resulting from this project. •