[First in Yamagata] Preventing Illegal Dumping with Drones: DBA Yamagata Branch Demonstrates Automated Surveillance (Visible + Infrared)

The Yamagata Branch of the Japan Drone Business Support Association (DBA) will serve as instructors and conduct an automated flight and infrared surveillance demonstration at the "Waste Illegal Dumping Prevention Seminar" to be held by the Shonai District Illegal Dumping Prevention Council on Thursday, June 4, 2026. The seminar will present drone-based surveillance operational know-how to approximately 40 participants, including prefectural and municipal government officials, construction industry associations, and the police. The program consists of two parts: classroom lectures and practical demonstrations, covering basic drone knowledge, introduction of the latest aircraft, automated takeoff/landing and autonomous flight, introduction of visible and infrared imagery, and case studies of drone utilization. Surveillance combining visible light cameras and infrared thermography has the strength of being able to handle areas difficult for conventional visual patrols, such as detecting dumped items hidden at night or by vegetation. The instructors are Mr. Juichi Yokoyama of the DBA Yamagata Branch and Mr. Koji Morimoto, Representative Director of the DBA. The DBA operates drone business certification schools and national qualification training courses nationwide, promoting the social implementation of drones.