Clay Kusbach is an experienced Associate Consultant and active team leader for Davey Resource Group, Inc. (DRG) in South Bend, Indiana. With over ten years of industry experience, Clay brings specific expertise in managing wetland mitigation and ecological restoration projects. His expertise in the green industry includes invasive species management, plantings, timber stand improvements, streambank stabilization, stormwater management techniques, urban forestry inventories, and identifying and recognizing specific sensitive biological communities. Clay manages multiple field crews and project operations throughout Northern Indiana and some of Southwest Michigan. He often works with clients from many private, governmental, and commercial sectors, helping them achieve their ecological goals. Before joining DRG, Clay worked for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, implementing vegetation and wildlife management plans, and as a park ranger leading interpretive programs and various volunteer restoration or trail work projects.

TSN Conference 2026

January 22nd, 2026 (Thursday) // 10:15 am – 11:15 am // Room 105 // Using Drones as a Tool in the Ecological Restoration Process // Sites with poor access or sensitive environments are difficult to manage with traditional tools, which can increase costs, create safety risks, and damage ecosystems. Davey Resource Group, Inc. (DRG) has introduced a fleet of drones equipped with aerial imaging, seeding, and herbicide application capabilities to address these challenges. This technology allows efficient data collection, precise vegetation management, and restoration implementation with a limited footprint, even across large or hard-to-reach areas. Drones reduce disturbance, improve safety, and enhance accuracy while supporting well-timed, strategic ecological restoration. When combined with boots-on-the-ground expertise, they expand DRG’s ability to deliver targeted and cost-effective restoration solutions. This presentation will highlight case studies showing how drone technology complements fieldwork, enabling better monitoring, seeding, and invasive species control while promoting resilient ecosystems.