Projekti pikendamise taotlus

REQUEST FOR CHANGES Project ID EE-LV00101 Project short name/acronym ML4HealthyForest Request We kindly request a project extension until 31 May , 2026 to allow us to further develop, demonstrate, and present our service as a commercial, fully validated solution recognized by forest managers to the Latvian and Estonian forest industries. The request is not related to budget changes. Reason and justification The validation results confirm that the workflow has strong potential and is already applicable in practice. At the same time, the analysis has revealed new opportunities to further enhance performance, which require additional refinement and actual LiDAR data over Latvia to achieve even higher operational reliability. While a significant share of results aligned with expert assessments, several limitations were identifie d. Of the 100 forest stands analyzed, 47 results matched expert knowledge, while 27 stands were habitats with restricted management, where the model response “needs thinning” was expected. However, limitations were identified: 10 stands were close to clear-cutting age and require different handling, 9 errors were linked to outdated LiDAR data, and 6 could not be explained by available LiDAR features, highlighting the impact of data currency and methodology on accuracy. To increase robustness, we plan to integrate the LiDAR-based workflow into the inventory-based approach, transition from a stand-based to a grid-based method to better handle heterogeneous stands , and repeat validation using the most recent (Cycle 2) LiDAR data for Latvia. Implementation of t hese steps will enable more reliable and accurate results and greater practical value for forest management. Postponing the planned seminars from March to May 2026 for the forest industries in Latvia and Estonia will enable us to present and disseminate the results with greater impact, ensuring that forest organizations receive a more robust, refined, and fully validated solution. Our partner Eeway has been consulted and agrees with the proposed extension. Changes in Jems Activity 4.1 Marketing activities in Latvia and Estonia End Period should be changed from 03/31/2026 to 05/31/2026 Lead partne r Baltic Satellite Service Name of signatory Ilze Barga Position in the organization Member of Board Signature / Digitally signed /