Belleville / Canadian Forces Base Trenton, Ontario, 21-23 February 2026
Arctic Search and Rescue Exchange 2026, held in Belleville and at Canadian Forces Base Trenton from 21–23 February 2026, brought together community responders from Nunavut, Nunavik, and Nunatsiavut with territorial, regional, and federal partners to strengthen collaboration across Canada’s Arctic search and rescue (SAR) system. Building on previous exchanges, the meeting was guided by the principle that effective Arctic SAR depends on strong relationships, mutual trust, respect for Indigenous Knowledge and local knowledge, and sustained collaboration. Discussions focused on how Arctic SAR partners can continue to strengthen these relationships and institutionalize the practices required to operate at the speed of trust.
Presentations by community responders showcased innovative approaches to strengthening local capacity, while discussions emphasized responder wellness, volunteer burnout, technology and communications, greater investment in SAR prevention initiatives, and the need for Arctic-specific training. A new collaborative course, Piliriqatigiinniq / Katutjiqatigiinniq: Working Together for a Common Cause in Arctic SAR, translated lessons from previous exchanges into practical guidance for improving collaboration during operations.
