2026-10-06 –, Capalari
ForestPlots.net supports researchers worldwide in managing long-term forest inventory data. Hosting one of the longest and most comprehensive records of forest change from 1939–2026, the platform tracks 4 million trees, many in remote regions of the tropics. These long-term censuses are essential for monitoring biodiversity change, estimating carbon stocks, and understanding forest dynamics.
ForestPlots.net’s success and wide acceptance stem from using highly standardised formats to allow common workflows and analyses from data collected by thousands of different researchers conducting on-the-ground measurements on individual trees in over 72 countries. However, collecting data in a fully compliant structure is difficult when relying on paper forms. The typical issues with paper workflows are intensified by remote working conditions with limited internet and electricity and frequent wet conditions.
To address these challenges, we are developing a digital data collection workflow using R and QGIS for structured data preparation and QField for field-ready mobile surveys. This system allows teams to record standardised ForestPlots.net variables directly on Android tablets, capture required and optional attributes and accurately identify tree locations in the forest. Early testing indicates that the QGIS/QField workflow significantly reduces collection-to-upload time and improves data quality by eliminating manual digitisation.
This presentation demonstrates the workflow: preparing project templates in QGIS, structuring attribute forms according to ForestPlots.net standards, deploying projects via QField, and synchronising outputs back into the ForestPlots.net database. We will also share lessons learned from on-the-ground training activities and data collection.
Looking ahead, we are developing an RShiny tool to allow users to upload ForestPlots.net outputs and automatically generate QField-ready projects without needing R experience. By transitioning from paper to a spatially aware digital workflow, ForestPlots.net aims to improve efficiency, consistency, and data quality in long-term tropical forest monitoring and climate and biodiversity research.
Nika works as International Research Data Officer at the University of Leeds, managing and supporting African tropical forest datasets. Her work focuses on data management, cleaning, and quality control, with experience in training collaborators in best practices. She is involved in the CongoFor1.5 project, contributing to assessments of the changing ecology and carbon balance of tropical forests in the Congo Basin.