The Grande Prairie Police Service tested new drone technology during the week of May 5, 2026, to help locate encampments in local parks. The testing, conducted in Muskoseepi Park and South Bear Creek Park, aimed to improve visibility in wooded areas that are difficult to see from the ground.
Working alongside Grande Prairie Enforcement Services, the police identified three sites of interest during the operation. One site was already being addressed by the City of Grande Prairie’s parks department, a second was referred for further follow-up, and a third, more permanent structure was found and subsequently dismantled.
Superintendent Greg Redl stated that the technology helps the service address potential safety risks early. He noted that encampments in public parks can present significant concerns for both the occupants and the community, particularly regarding fire risks from heating sources. This is especially relevant as the City of Grande Prairie issued a fire restriction on May 9, 2026, due to dry weather and an increased wildfire danger.
Police emphasized that the drone operation was not used for the surveillance of individuals. No video recording took place, and only still images were captured to assist with follow-up. The service allocated $33,078 for drones and equipment in its 2026 capital budget.
The Grande Prairie Police Service is currently preparing to become the police of jurisdiction for the city on October 21, 2026. As the service works toward this transition, it plans to establish drone operations as a specialized unit. Future uses for the technology will include searching for missing people, documenting crime scenes, and mapping collision sites.
