Real Time Fuel Moisture Monitoring Using Low-cost Internet of Things Devices

The Challenge

The identification of suitable windows of opportunity for prescribed burn implementation is an ongoing challenge for fire management agencies. Addressing this problem is of growing importance as climate change increases the threat of bushfires and windows of opportunity may shift in seasonality or narrow in duration.

The moisture content of bushfire fuel is a key limitation on bushfire occurrence and on implementing fuel hazard reduction burns. Fire agencies monitor the moisture content of bushfire fuel primarily using direct measurement, which often involves considerable travel time and results in limited point-location data. While there are several solutions to this problem, cost and interpretation are consistent barriers to fire management agencies.

The Solution

Low-cost devices for bushfire smoke detection have been developed which have temperature and relative humidity sensors that can estimate the moisture content of bushfire fuel. These devices will be trialled as part of this project to better understand the challenges to their operational deployment, and how they can complement satellite derived fuel moisture monitoring. The data provided will enable fire management agencies to better prepare for and respond to fires, which are an increasing threat to lives and assets across New South Wales and elsewhere.

Industry Partner

Government Partner

University Partners