Data, and the information generated, are foundational pieces supporting informed decision making within regulatory frameworks. Traditionally, data collection has consisted of a mix of field level observations supplemented with aerial imagery. However, there has been a rapid development of platform technologies such as geographic information systems (GIS), remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAS), earth observation (EO), artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML) that can also be used to collect and process data.
In the workshop and this report, a new acronym was created: Remote Data Collection and Assessment Tools (ReDCATs). The term ReDCAT collectively refers to the following:
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS);
• Remote Sensing (RS): active and passive sensor types;
• Earth Observation (EO): ground-based, Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS; also known as drones), fixed or rotary wing aircraft, and satellites; and
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML).
Collectively, these technologies enable the collection, processing and analysis of much more data, at greater frequency, finer resolutions, and across much larger areas. However, the rapid pace of technology development has outpaced the ability for policy makers and regulators to evaluate current policy and practices, such as field[1]level measurements and observations, resulting in a delay in both uptake and adoption within policy. The impacts of this delay may include missed opportunities for efficiency, and a lack of incentive for the development of relevant tools and processes.
The Canadian Land Reclamation Association’s (CLRA) workshop in 2024 highlighted the need to continue demonstrating, and clearly communicating, operational and regulatory applications of these technologies by: comparing the value and costs of using ReDCAT technologies against current methods; and, understanding the value of the data and information derived from these technologies within various business contexts, to support building the business case for their integration and adoption. To build on the success of the 2024 workshop, the Alberta Chapter of the CLRA and Alberta Innovates co-hosted a workshop in Calgary on June 16, 2025. The intent of the workshop was to continue the conversation by identifying project concepts that promote opportunities for uptake by industry, regulators, and policy makers while continuing to foster innovation in this space.
The 2025 workshop resulted in several high-priority project ideas that propose a clear path forward for innovation and regulatory collaboration. Key examples include establishing a cross-sector technical committee for developing a ReDCAT framework and launching a pilot project to develop ReDCAT criteria for cultivated lands