Event background

2026 WRCC Technology and Innovation Gathering

2026 WRCC Technology and Innovation Gathering

March 4-5, 2026
Location: Edmonton, AB

6th Wildfire Detection Workshop

Email Rex.Hsieh@fpinnovations.ca for an invitation to attend the workshop.

Hosted by: WRCC, ACTO Electric, Alberta Wildfire, CIFFC, and FPInnovations

Many utility, railway, and rural municipalities are investing in wildfire detection for their own value protection and public good. However, wildfire agencies may or may not be ready to respond to a sudden increase in detection capacities. There could be mismatch on expectations of all parties if communications and discussions are not established early.

A workshop among wildfire agencies, utility, rail, rural municipalities, and Indigenous communities can help to bridge the gap and bring a higher level of understanding to all parties. This workshop will also be an opportunity for Canadian wildfire agencies to discuss resource sharing such as a common camera-based detection platform and a detection technology testing site.

Objective

The objective is building relationships and establishing communication links between wildfire agencies, utility / rail companies, and rural municipalities.

  • For wildfire agencies: preparing for contribution and involvement from utility/rail companies and rural municipalities, and indigenous communities on wildfire detection.
  • For utility/rail companies: understanding the current state, future needs, and constraints of wildfire detection in different jurisdictions.

Format and Registration

  • An in-person format is preferred but online access link will be available.
  • Invitation and registry are required - email Rex.Hsieh@fpinnovations.ca to be added on the invitation list.
  • No digital recording during the workshop to encourage open discussions but the minutes will be compiled for all participants.

Location

  • Edmonton, AB
  • Venue: TBD

Cost

  • No registration fee for participants.
  • Participants are responsible for traveling cost.
  • The workshop will provide coffee, snacks, and lunch.

Participating members/Collaborators

  • All Canadian wildfire agencies including CIFFC and CFS
    Utility/rail companies
  • Rural municipalities and indigenous communities
  • Academic
  • International speakers based on the topic
  • No vendor

Questions? Please email: Rex.Hsieh@fpinnovations.ca

Rex Hsieh
Sénior Chercheur, Groupe de lutte contre les incendies de forêts
Senior Researcher, Wildfire Operations
FPInnovations


2026 WRCC Technology and Innovation Gathering

Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada

Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada

Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada

Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada

Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada

Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada

Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada

Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada

Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada

Wildfire Resilience Consortium of Canada