Conservation Technology Innovations: AI, Drones, and GIS
Discover how cutting-edge tools like AI, drones, and GIS are reshaping the future of conservation. In just eight weeks, you’ll gain hands-on experience turning complex ecological data into powerful strategies that drive real impact in biodiversity protection and restoration.
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Overview
Conservation Technology Innovations: AI, Drones, and GIS is an 8-week, 15-hour learning experience for mid-career professionals who want a practical introduction to GIS, remote sensing, drone-based monitoring, and AI for effective conservation work. You'll learn how to interpret spatial and satellite data, choose the right tools for monitoring and modeling, and turn data into actionable information for decision-makers. We'll cover the ethics of data collection, use, and publication, including data sovereignty and governance structures.
Through a blend of asynchronous learning and live interactive sessions, participants will:
- Assess priority zones and model ecological scenarios using GIS, satellite data, and remote sensing indices.
- Guide investment in restoration projects by mapping ecological health and degraded cover with Google Earth Engine and QGIS.
- Design and manage drone-based monitoring plans, including logistics, permitting, biodiversity indicators, and data workflows.
- Apply generative AI for literature review, project planning, and code development in Google Earth Engine, while integrating ethical practices.
- Create data governance frameworks that address sovereignty, responsible use, and effective communication to decision-makers.
- Develop an applied workflow that integrates ecological data with stakeholder input to inform conservation decisions.
LIVE SESSIONS
This program includes a total of 7 weekly live online sessions. All session will occur on Tuesdays 1:00 - 2:00 pm (Arizona/MST) on the following dates:
- May 19, 2026
- May 26, 2026
- June 2, 2026
- June 9, 2026
- June 16, 2026
- June 23, 2026
- June 30, 2026
Once you complete this course, you'll have foundational, hands-on experience to confidently keep pace with the latest technologies and apply them to real-world conservation and biodiversity restoration challenges.
This program was developed with expertise from the following:
- Jiwei Li, Assistant Professor, School of Ocean Futures
- Max Wright, Director of Spatial Planning and Priority Setting, Conservation International.
- Carly Batist, Nature Tech & AI Innovation Manager, Conservation International
- Yash Pachchigar, AI Innovation Specialist, ASU Learning Enterprise
Instructors
Arizona State University
Contact information
Have additional questions?
Please reach out directly to Tye Waggoner ([email protected]) for assistance with the programs content.
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