Field and Remote Sensing Environmental Data FRED

This project focused on developing Field and Remote Sensing Environmental Data (FRED) as a tool for high spatial resolution satellite data planning and reclamation of OSE well pads in the Boreal Forest to replace non digitized field acquisition workflows (i.e. helicopter surveys). Anticipated benefits included: (1) using most up to date technology available to provide the most current and complete data to better understand the environment being monitored; (2) time and cost savings compared to traditional environmental surveys; and (3) providing long-term digital field data standard for life cycle of projects.

This project was successful, leading to the first industrial use of remote sensing technologies for achieving a Reclamation Certificate (2021). Many upsides of using remote sensing for OSE management were found: (1) reduced safety exposure and cost through reduced helicopter flight times; (2) improved assessment and data quality compared to helicopter fly-overs; and (3) capacity to close large OSE portfolio with simultaneous assessments. It was noted that remote sensing technologies in industrial applications have yet to be fully deployed, and that tools like FRED could also be used to address other regulatory or execution needs.