The marine conservation efforts at present are being helped by the use of drone technology. It is becoming increasingly popular due to the cost-effectiveness, accessibility, and data accuracy. With drone technology, researchers can access inaccessible areas in the ocean and record accurate information about marine life.

The CTC team had an opportunity for in-house training to learn about drone technology on September 18-19, 2023. The two-day training was attended by 11 participants including CTC staff members and representatives of the Nusa Penida MPA Management Unit. Participants began the training with a pre-test on basic drone technology knowledge. Training continued on topics such as basic drone information (regulation, remote control, pre-in-post flight checklist), drone maneuvering, photo and video capture, basic mapping, image processing, and wrapped with a post-test. 

During the training, participants had the opportunity to engage in discussions with the trainer, Muhammad Ramadhany, a professional GIS expert who has been a certified drone pilot,operator, and trainer since 2010. He has collaborated with various groups, including government institutions, private organizations, and communities. He holds certifications and licenses from the Federasi Aerosport Indonesia and APDI (Asosiasi Pilot Drone Indonesia).

On the second day, participants visited the Nusa Penida Marine Protected Area (MPA) to practice  mapping, aerial photography and videography, allowing them firsthand experience of the practical applications of drone technology in surveying. They explored the mangrove area as well as Manta Point and Crystal Bay. 

“In the future, we can utilize drones for aerial mapping and surveillance to enhance the effectiveness of management in Nusa Penida MPA. We have also conducted mapping in the mangrove area covering around 200 hectares, as well as in the Manta Point and Crystal Bay areas, generating a total of over 1,000 photos that will be analyzed soon.” said Evi Ihsan, Nusa Penida Project Leader.

The drone training initiative represents a pivotal key towards strengthening support for the Nusa Penida Marine Protected Area (MPA). As technology continues to evolve and provide new tools for marine conservation, CTC is committed to ensuring that these innovations are utilized to their fullest potential to safeguard marine ecosystems for generations to come in the Nusa Penida MPA.

Writer: Adam Putra, Evi Ihsan/CTC
Photos: Evi Ihsan/CTC