Damage and Event Assessment

Storms, wildfire, windthrow, pests, and drought can create urgent information gaps. The initial priority is often to determine where visible damage is concentrated, whether access is possible, and where field crews or salvage planners should go first.

The return comes from compressing the reconnaissance timeline and reducing the amount of broad ground or helicopter-based assessment.

Illustrative 200-Hectare Scenario

Conventional Assessment

Assume the initial assessment requires:

• Three helicopter hours at $1,800 per hour: $5,400

• Staff participation and ground follow-up: 20 hours at $85: $1,700

• Mapping and reporting: 8 hours at $85: $680

• Estimated total: $7,780

Drone-Assisted Assessment

• Drone capture and analytical delivery: $2,500

• Staff planning and analytical review: 16 hours at $85: $1,360

• Targeted field verification: 8 hours at $85: $680

• Estimated total: $4,540

Illustrative Result

• Estimated cost reduction: $3,240

• Estimated percentage reduction: 42%

• Reduced need for broad helicopter or ground reconnaissance

• Faster delivery of a mapped operational overview

Primary ROI Drivers

• Reduced helicopter or aircraft time

• Fewer personnel hours in unstable terrain

• Faster salvage and access planning

• More targeted deployment of professional crews

• Earlier documentation for insurers and internal reporting

• Reduced time spent locating damaged areas

The financial value may extend beyond assessment savings. Earlier identification can help protect recoverable timber value and reduce delays in salvage or cleanup decisions.