University of Alaska seeks permit for wildfire drone tests near Nenana

The University of Alaska is seeking a state land use permit to deploy up to 30 drones and 1,200 gas sensors during controlled burns west of Nenana in June and July 2026. The public can comment on the proposal through May 29.

ACUASI plans to test autonomous vehicles and remote sensing equipment in a wildfire simulation. The testing area would stretch roughly 24 miles along the Parks Highway from milepost 295 to milepost 319. A 55-foot radar tower and trailer would be stationed off the Nenana-Totchaket Road.

University of Alaska researchers have used drones and sensors to forecast wildfire smoke and air quality in Alaska since at least 2012, when ACUASI aircraft supported firefighting efforts near Funny River with infrared imagers and aerosol sensors. In 2015, UAF researchers used satellites and drones to predict wildfire smoke paths and short-term air quality impacts.

The radar trailer would house one generator and a 90-gallon fuel tank. Staff would be present during radar and generator operations. Fuel and batteries not in use would be stored at the Nenana Municipal Airport. All equipment and structures would be removed at the end of the monitoring program.

The Division of Mining, Land and Water is accepting written comments through May 29 at 3700 Airport Way, Fairbanks, AK 99709. Comments can also be emailed to [email protected] or submitted by fax to 907-451-2751. Questions should be directed to Natalie Bremers at 907-451-2735.