Everybody in the Pool E89: Projectile tree-planting with Flash Forest
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May 15, 2025 Cameron Jones, co-founder and COO of Flash Forest, is revolutionizing reforestation with drone technology. Inspired by the devastating wildfires he witnessed in Canada, Cameron shares how they automatize tree planting using harmless seed projectiles. He discusses the hurdles of launching a Kickstarter-funded venture and the importance of machine learning in improving tree survival rates. The mission? To plant one billion trees by 2028, showcasing the power of collaboration and innovation in tackling climate change.
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Founders' Wildfire Inspiration
- Cameron Jones and his brother co-founded Flash Forest inspired by personal wildfire experience.
- The forest behind their childhood home burned down 20 years ago and hasn't regrown naturally.
Kickstarter Boosted Their Launch
- Flash Forest launched on Kickstarter, raising over $110,000 and gaining massive media attention.
- They offered tree planting on backers' behalf, not physical products, which was unusual for Kickstarter.
Challenges of Mechanical Tree Planting
- Planting trees mechanically is difficult due to uneven terrain and obstacles in forests.
- Dropping seed pods randomly fails because seeds must be embedded properly for roots to penetrate.