Editor's note
Hello and welcome to this week’s edition of Boreal Tech Brief.
Over the past few weeks, I’ve started to really grasp the potential of MCP and AI agents - and honestly, the possibilities are mind-blowing. The idea of connecting tools, data, and workflows through natural language isn’t just a productivity boost; it’s a shift in how we’ll work with forest data altogether.
This issue highlights that shift in action, from AI-driven GIS and timber scanning to smart forestry operations, bio-based firefighting foams, and digital reforestation systems.
Each of these stories points toward the same thing: a more connected, data-driven, and responsive forestry sector that’s learning fast from what’s happening outside its own boundaries.
I hope these updates bring a few new ideas to your work.
Axel
Matt Forrest: AI Agents and MCP Are Rapidly Transforming GIS Workflows
Matt Forrest’s post on LinkedIn shows that MCP and AI agents are rapidly transforming GIS. New tools now automate real geospatial tasks, enable map chat interfaces, and support secure, agent-driven workflows—all accelerating how organizations manage and analyze spatial data.
Komatsu Smart Forestry Technology Protects Tenerife's Fire-Damaged Forests
Following Tenerife's 2023 wildfire, Komatsu's Smart Forestry system guided precision removal of hazardous dead trees from protected natural areas. The technology integrated digital terrain analysis with harvester controls, enabling surgical accuracy in steep, fire-damaged terrain while minimizing soil disturbance.
Södra's Värö Sawmill Pioneers AI-Driven Timber Scanning
Summary: Södra's Värö sawmill became the first to deploy MiCROTEC's Goldeneye Transverse SE system for certified strength grading. The AI-powered solution scans up to 240 boards per minute, reduces waste through precise pith detection, and enables better timber utilization with four-sided scanning capability.
University of Alberta Engineers Bacteria for Eco-Friendly Firefighting Foam
University of Alberta researchers engineered bacteria to produce a natural surfactant for firefighting foam. This bio-foam helps forests absorb water and resist burning, aiming to replace petrochemical suppressants with a greener, biodegradable solution.
cBrain Digitizes Denmark's Largest Reforestation Program
cBrain deployed its F2 digital platform to support Denmark's 230 000 hectare reforestation grant program. The GIS-integrated system streamlines application processing, monitoring, and compliance for forest restoration projects, improving efficiency in national forest expansion efforts