AI maps over 10 million dead trees along Atlantic coast

September 6, 2026 at 10:13 PM2 min

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Researchers led by the University of Virginia mapped over 10 million dead trees along the Atlantic coast using AI analysis of high-resolution aerial photos. The study, published in Nature Sustainability, found more than 6 million dead trees in areas less than 5 meters above sea level. The die-off is driven by saltwater intrusion into soil and groundwater, not just flooding.

Key Facts

Researchers mapped over 10 million dead trees along the Atlantic coast using AI analysis of high-resolution aerial photos.
More than 6 million dead trees were found in areas less than 5 meters above sea level.
Roads reduced forest loss by 40% and levees by 79% by partially blocking saltwater intrusion.
The study was published in Nature Sustainability by researchers including Henry Chi Hang Yeung and Xi Yang.

Saltwater Intrusion

Saltwater mixing into soil and groundwater is a primary cause of tree death, not just flooding. Increased salinity makes it harder for tree roots to absorb water, causing trees to lose leaves and eventually die. Dead trees can remain standing for years, creating 'ghost forests' of thousands of dry trunks. In some areas, salt-tolerant grasses and shrubs spread, turning former forests into salt marshes.

Human Structures

Roads between water and forest reduced forest loss by 40%, and levees by 79%. These structures partially block saltwater from moving inland, but researchers say they are not a long-term solution.

Study Limitations

The actual number of dead trees may exceed 10 million because the method cannot detect fallen trees, dry trunks under living trees, or trees with very small crowns. Not all dead trees died from saltwater; drought and insects may also play a role in some areas. The study used AI and aerial images with resolution finer than one meter to create one of the most detailed maps of dead trees on the Atlantic coast.