2026 MRA Conference

Advanced Mountain Small Party Assisted Rescue (A-MSPAR) - $285 - Offered by Direct Action Vertical

Registration Link

You must register on a different website for this workshop.

June 10, 2026, 8:30-12:00 PM

This 3.5 hour pre-conference course will introduce core search theory concepts and demonstrate how unoccupied aircraft systems (UAS) can be effectively integrated into mountain rescue operations. Participants will gain practical insight into mission planning, aerial search techniques, and real-time data application to improve search efficiency and decision-making in complex terrain.  

June 10, 2026, 13:00-16:00

This 3-hour pre-conference course will showcase software tools used to process UAS-acquired imagery for identifying missing persons and areas of interest in search and rescue operations. Participants will explore workflows including image stitching, orthomosaic generation, and automated detection techniques to enhance situational awareness and improve search outcomes.  

June 11, 2026, 8:30-12:00PM

This session will highlight how heavy-lift UAS platforms can support search and rescue operations by delivering critical payloads, deploying scene lighting, and enhancing operational efficiency in remote or hazardous environments. It will also explore emerging applications in avalanche hazard reduction, including the use of drone-deployed explosives to improve responder safety and reduce exposure in high-risk terrain.  

June 10-11, 9 AM to 5 PM $450 With Luc Mehl and Tim Kelley

You must register on a different website for this workshop.

Registration: https://www.triplepointtraining.com/offers/r85R7frr/checkout

No prerequisites, but we will be working in Class II water. No equipment provided. See the course website for equipment and eligibility requirements.

Packraft Safety & Rescue is the product of teaching over 75 packraft and swiftwater rescue courses—what matters, and how to learn it.

* One day reviewing and practicing river safety fundamentals: throw ropes, wading, swiftwater swimming, and foot-entrapment rescues.* One day working on paddle strokes, boat control (catching eddies, peeling out, etc.), and how to use packrafts as rescue crafts.

Information: https://www.triplepointtraining.com/packraft-safety-rescue

You must register on a different website for this FREE workshop.

Registration Link

Learn a dynamic yet repeatable approach to leading a rope rescue call.  Fine tune your approach to size-up, rescue planning, resource allocation, span of control, risk awareness and management, and the communication strategies to make it all come together.  

2 Day class (June 10th and 11th) - both days required.  Students should be prepared for movement on rope in a high angle environment.  Fundamental rope skills required. Please bring helmet, harness and gloves.

No fee - registration required for pre course communication and planning purposes.

Explore with your fellow MRA members! Embark on a 3 hour whale watching and wildlife cruise with a custom expedition available only to MRA Spring Conference attendees.

Thursday, June 11, 2026 - 12:45 to 16:30

Quick Details: 

Duration: 3 hours

Spaces available: 140

Onboard Comfort: Restrooms, large panoramic windows, and an outside observation deck.
Galley Gift Shop: Curated with locally owned products.
Refreshments: Beer, wine, and a variety of food and beverage options available for purchase.
Wildlife Viewing: Search for whales, sea lions, porpoises, seals, bald eagles, and more!
Experience and Expertise: Over 50 years of operation as a family and Alaska-Native owned company.

After the wildlife cruise attendees can plan on a short 5-10 minute walk to the UAS Recreation Center for registration check-in, happy hour and vendor village.

The 2026 MRA Banquet Dinner will be held at the University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) Recreation Center. Shuttle transportation will be offered after the dinner back to the discounted hotel lodging option list provided for the conference.

Date: Saturday, June 13th

Time: 1700 - 2200

Date: Tuesday, June 9

Lodging Information: Lodging will be provided at John Pugh Hall on the main University Campus, a 5-10 minute walk from the conference location at the UAS Recreation Center. Lodging is priced per bed in a double bedroom unit and paired with a private restroom and mini-kitchen. The residence hall has large communal cooking facilities and common spaces.  For more details, see https://www.mrvarchitects.com/portfolio/uas-pugh-residence-hall/

Date: Wednesday, June 10

Lodging Information: Lodging will be provided at John Pugh Hall on the main University Campus, a 5-10 minute walk from the conference location at the UAS Recreation Center. Lodging is priced per bed in a double bedroom unit and paired with a private restroom and mini-kitchen. The residence hall has large communal cooking facilities and common spaces.  For more details, see https://www.mrvarchitects.com/portfolio/uas-pugh-residence-hall/

Date: Thursday, June 11

Lodging Information: Lodging will be provided at John Pugh Hall on the main University Campus, a 5-10 minute walk from the conference location at the UAS Recreation Center. Lodging is priced per bed in a double bedroom unit and paired with a private restroom and mini-kitchen. The residence hall has large communal cooking facilities and common spaces.  For more details, see https://www.mrvarchitects.com/portfolio/uas-pugh-residence-hall/

Date: Friday, June 12

Lodging Information: Lodging will be provided at John Pugh Hall on the main University Campus, a 5-10 minute walk from the conference location at the UAS Recreation Center. Lodging is priced per bed in a double bedroom unit and paired with a private restroom and mini-kitchen. The residence hall has large communal cooking facilities and common spaces.  For more details, see https://www.mrvarchitects.com/portfolio/uas-pugh-residence-hall/

Date: Saturday, June 13

Lodging Information: Lodging will be provided at John Pugh Hall on the main University Campus, a 5-10 minute walk from the conference location at the UAS Recreation Center. Lodging is priced per bed in a double bedroom unit and paired with a private restroom and mini-kitchen. The residence hall has large communal cooking facilities and common spaces.  For more details, see https://www.mrvarchitects.com/portfolio/uas-pugh-residence-hall/

Date: Sunday, June 14

Lodging Information: Lodging will be provided at John Pugh Hall on the main University Campus, a 5-10 minute walk from the conference location at the UAS Recreation Center. Lodging is priced per bed in a double bedroom unit and paired with a private restroom and mini-kitchen. The residence hall has large communal cooking facilities and common spaces.  For more details, see https://www.mrvarchitects.com/portfolio/uas-pugh-residence-hall/

Date: Monday, June 15

Lodging Information: Lodging will be provided at John Pugh Hall on the main University Campus, a 5-10 minute walk from the conference location at the UAS Recreation Center. Lodging is priced per bed in a double bedroom unit and paired with a private restroom and mini-kitchen. The residence hall has large communal cooking facilities and common spaces.  For more details, see https://www.mrvarchitects.com/portfolio/uas-pugh-residence-hall/

Sunday, June 14, 2026 - 0800-1200

The 2026 Spring Business Meeting will be held at the University of Alaska Southeast (UAS) Recreation Center. One-way shuttle transportation will be offered from the discounted hotel lodging option list to the meeting. Light breakfast and coffee will be provided.

Date: Sunday, June 14th

Time: 0800 - 1200