# ERI: Fuel Reduction Aided by Multi-Robot Teams in Forests

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · University of California - Merced (CA) · $200,000

## Abstract

This Engineering Research Initiation (ERI) award supports research that will contribute new knowledge in robotic removal of wood waste from forests, thereby promoting the progress of science, advancing the national health, prosperity and welfare. Forest fires cause severe damage to communities by destroying property and livelihoods. To mitigate wildfire risk and severity, several clearing methods are utilized, ranging from mechanical fuel reduction, to prescribed burning and to grazing by animals. For mechanical reduction, limbing - the removal of lower branches from trees — is one of the most critical methods for preventing crown fires, as these lower limbs act as "ladders" that help surface fires reach the canopy. However, limbing remains largely reliant on manual, hazardous and labor-intensive activities performed by forestry workers. This project look to provide needed knowledge for the development of robotic teams capable of autonomously cutting and catching lower tree limbs. The new robotic system looks to alleviate the workload of forestry workers in some of their most physically demanding activities, improving occupational health. It also intends to accelerate removal of hazardous fuels from the forest, contributing to wildfire prevention in the US. Results from this research intend to help protect US communities located near or within forests, as well as forest-based industries such as logging and tourism. The project will provide undergraduate and graduate students 

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2501944
- **Awardee organization:** University of California - Merced (CA)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** FFM7VPAG8P92
- **PI:** Ricardo de Castro
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** ROBOTICS, CONTROL SYSTEMS, RESEARCH INITIATION AWARD, WOMEN, MINORITY, DISABLED, NEC
- **Estimated total:** $200,000
- **Funds obligated:** $200,000
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 07/01/2025 → 06/30/2027

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2501944

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2501944, ERI: Fuel Reduction Aided by Multi-Robot Teams in Forests. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-07 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2501944. Licensed CC0.

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