SMART Patrol Training: Enhancing Conservation Efforts with Technology

The SMART Patrol Training for PT NRS Employees took place on February 26-28, 2025, at the NRS Office in Desa Kalahien. This three-day internal training is designed to equip participants with the necessary skills to utilize SMART (Spatial Monitoring and Reporting Tool) effectively in forest conservation and biodiversity monitoring efforts.

Background

SMART is an advanced software tool developed from the earlier MIST (Management Information System) to improve conservation area management. It has been tested across various countries in Southeast Asia, South Asia, Africa, and Latin America. More than just a data collection tool, SMART functions as an integrated management system for conservation areas, carbon projects, industrial forest plantations, and High Conservation Value (HCV) areas.

For PT Nusantara Raya Solusi (NRS), integrating SMART into forest concession management is a crucial step at every stage. The Forest Preservation and Monitoring Division, responsible for fire prevention patrols, benefits from a user-friendly tool like SMART. Additionally, the system is instrumental in biodiversity monitoring at both community and population levels, aiding in conservation planning, implementation, and evaluation.

Purpose of the Training

This training is designed to introduce SMART as a data collection mechanism within PT NRS operations. It also aims to enhance participants' knowledge and technical skills in system configuration and the operation of SMART software, ensuring they can apply it effectively in their conservation efforts.

Training Activities

The training consists of classroom sessions, practical exercises, simulations, and discussions, ensuring participants gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. On Day 1 (February 26, 2025), participants was introduced to SMART and its implementation in Indonesia. They learned about the application’s features, data structure, and how to install and use SMART Mobile. This session was delivered through theoretical presentations and hands-on software walkthroughs. On Day 2 (February 27, 2025), the focus shifts to data collection techniques. Participants engaged in hands-on practice, recording patrol data using SMART Mobile and conducting field data collection. They also input the collected patrol data into SMART Desktop, reinforcing their practical skills through both classroom exercises and fieldwork. On Day 3 (February 28, 2025), the training covered data input and reporting using SMART Desktop. Participants learned to manage and export SMART data for reporting purposes. The final session included discussions on follow-up actions, ensuring that the knowledge gained is effectively applied in future conservation efforts.

Participants

This training is tailored for key teams involved in conservation and monitoring efforts, including the Forest Protection and Conservation (FPC) Team, Biodiversity Team, Community Development Team, and the Restoration Team. These groups play a vital role in ensuring the sustainability of forest conservation initiatives within NRS. To maximize the training's effectiveness, participants are required to bring laptops (for SMART data entry operators), Android smartphones (for SMART Mobile application), writing materials, and NRS area datasets to facilitate practical exercises. To support sustainability efforts, participants are encouraged to bring reusable water bottles to minimize plastic waste. Additionally, for the field training session on Day 2, participants should prepare raincoats and waterproof phone covers to protect their devices from the elements.

This SMART Patrol Training is a crucial step in strengthening NRS’s conservation efforts. By equipping teams with the necessary technical skills and tools, we are ensuring effective monitoring and protection of our forests and biodiversity. Through this initiative, NRS remains committed to leveraging technology-driven solutions for sustainable environmental management.