Government of Canada Partners with University of Victoria on Remote Sensing Research

News Release

VICTORIA – The Honourable Gary Lunn, Minister of Natural
Resources, today announced a memorandum of understanding providing for
contribution agreements of up to $2.25 million with the University of Victoria
for advanced remote sensing research. A key goal of the agreement is to find
innovative solutions to address resource management and development needs in
British Columbia.
"Today we embark on a multi-year collaboration with the University of
Victoria to use remote sensing in our continuing efforts to address the
challenges facing B.C.'s resource-based communities," said Minister Lunn. "This
research will enhance our capacity in natural resources planning and management
and in resource use, especially in areas suffering from the mountain pine beetle
epidemic."
"We have an outstanding group of people working on remote sensing
technologies and their applications," said Jamie Cassels, the University of
Victoria's Vice-President Academic and Provost. "We welcome this opportunity to
bring that expertise to bear on addressing British Columbia's natural resource
challenges and opportunities."
The University of Victoria uses an advanced form of remote sensing known as
hyperspectral imaging, which provides more detailed imagery than conventional
remote sensing systems. Using this and other geomatics tools such as laser
technology and spatial modelling, researchers are investigating a range of
issues related to the mountain pine beetle epidemic.
This research will be used by decision and policy makers, natural resource
communities, and forestry, mining and energy industries as they work to
diversify and strengthen the local economies of resource-based communities in
B.C.
The Government of Canada has invested $200 million in communities and
forestry resources impacted by the mountain pine beetle epidemic. Today's
announcement is an important step towards long-term improvements in the economic
future of communities affected by the beetle, and will contribute to post-beetle
economic diversification and community rehabilitation.
Canada's Government continues to support Canadian researchers and innovators
in developing new ideas and bringing them to the marketplace through Canada's
Science and Technology Strategy.
FOR BROADCAST USE:
Natural Resources Minister Gary Lunn has announced up to $2.25 million in
funding for research using advanced remote sensing technology at the University
of Victoria. The goal is to find innovative solutions to natural resource
management and development needs in British Columbia resulting from the mountain
pine beetle infestation.
Media may contact:
Louise Girouard Director of Communications Office of the Minister
Natural Resources Canada Ottawa 613-996-2007
The general public may contact:
Mon-Fri, 8:30-4:30 EDTTelephone: 613-995-0947TTY:
613-996-4397(teletype for the hearing-impaired) E-mail: questions@nrcan.gc.caThe following media backgrounder is available at www.nrcan.gc.ca/media:
Hyperspectral Remote Sensing Research at the University of Victoria
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releases and backgrounders are available at www.nrcan.gc.ca/media.

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2016-12-15

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Government of Canada Partners with University of Victoria on Remote Sensing Research

News Release

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