Date: May 5-6, 2026 Native American Fish and Wildlife Society, class 35 students Weaponize the Senses.
Location: Mohawk Nation, Chittenango Falls State Park
Weather: 80F, Winds were swirling started around 2pm
Vegetation: Deciduous Forest, with large jutting boulders near low grounds, 25% moss covered ground, with fallen leaves which crush and fold, sporadic pine needle helped me stay on track (usually opposite). Restrictive movement in low ground where water collects in swamps.
Terrain: Gentle to moderate slopes, elevation – 1000ft GSL,
Assessment for SAR- For missing persons, Thermal mounted FPV Drone to check areas of shelter during cold months. Supported by traditional ground and air assets.
Assessment for Law Enforcement Tactical Trackers- Scent dog at lead until he alerts, then pull the bite dog up to make contact. Keep officers dispersed minimum 7 meters as allowed. Traveling overwatch satellites around the Team Leader and Trackers. FPV Drone deployed form rear slack man in order to clear micro terrain and danger areas. The rocks provide cover and concealment and are plenty. ISR Drone with thermal for night, and payload ability for resupply and or sensor placement, etc. ISR MUST SUPPLEMENT THE GROUND FPV deployment as the FPV may cause the subject to move, so ISR may see that movement first and vice versa. Quality drones with good optics are taking detailed footprints with clear patter at 45 feet from the ground. This is excellent for searching track traps or linear features where tracks may be found in soils. Tracking can greatly reduce the search area to prioritize assets and reduce cost/risk. All Trackers must have binoculars and high-powered flashlights for low light conditions. waterproof boots or booties.
– Freddy