NAIT Applied Research has announced a collaboration with Peavine Métis Settlement to create a wildfire detection system. This initiative aims to enhance community safety following the Grizzly Complex wildfire in May 2023. This devastating event led to community evacuations and significant emotional trauma.
Partnership and Goals
Lynn Smith, the Regional Planning Coordinator for Peavine Métis Settlement, expressed gratitude for the initiative. She highlighted the ongoing emotional impact of wildfires on the community. Smith stated, “This project is a way of paying it forward, by partnering with NAIT and creating an early warning system.”
The primary objective of the wildfire detection project is to provide the community with early alerts regarding potential wildfire threats. This will be facilitated through a network of environmental sensors strategically placed within the surrounding forests.
Technology and Implementation
The system will be developed by NAIT’s Centre for Sensors and System Integration. Dr. Quamrul Huda, JR Shaw Applied Research Chair, mentioned that compact sensor units will be established in trees. These sensors will cover a wide radius, monitoring smoke, temperature, humidity, and air quality.
- Data will be transmitted wirelessly to a central hub in Peavine.
- Trained personnel will analyze the incoming information.
The detection system aims to identify wildfire conditions early, thus allowing more time for necessary responses and potential evacuations. The project is currently undergoing refinement at the Alberta Capital Airshed’s Edmonton McCauley station.
Future Implications
The expected completion and deployment of the system in Peavine will take place before the next wildfire season. This project also aims to gather long-term data on environmental conditions to better predict wildfire risks.
Additionally, the successful implementation of this system holds promise for wider applications throughout Alberta and across Canada. This is especially critical as communities increasingly confront the threats posed by wildfires.
