We will discuss the applications, uses, and challenges of AI and machine learning in forest science. We will begin with a 15–20-minute introduction by the organisers. Then delegates will be requested to break up into small groups of < 10 people to discuss a list of questions that we will provide them (~45 min). We will then gather in the large group to report on one opportunity, one concern, and one practical application for the use of AI/ML per subgroup (~45 min). We will provide handouts to the participants summarizing useful AI/ML techniques, with suggestions for further reading.

We will start with a short introduction from the moderator, providing some background on why cross-border collaboration in forest health is becoming increasingly important. Participants will share how forest insect monitoring is conducted in their country. The participants will then break into rotating discussion tables organized around 4 topics: (1) Monitoring methods and harmonization, (2) Data storage, access and sharing, (3) Barriers to collaboration, and (4) Coordinated response mechanisms. The final session will bring everyone back together to reflect on the main ideas from the discussion tables and think about next steps.

Annex 1 of ISPM 39: International Movement of Wood, titled “Use of systems approaches in managing the pest risk associated with the movement of wood,” was recently published.

This provides guidelines for reducing pest and pathogen risks at various stages within the value chain to enable the safe international movement of wood commodities.

While Canada has already begun implementing this approach, it remains largely unimplemented globally. After first explaining the systems approach, the facilitators envision participants then presenting ideas on how to achieve pest/pathogen mitigated status for target products made from specific tree species in their own countries.