Remote Explosive Scent Tracing (REST) is a survey methodology based on using dogs and rats to detect landmines and explosive remnants of war (ERW). Systems similar to REST have been used in technical survey and mine clearance operations for 20 years, and have been subject to a study conducted by the GICHD since 2000.

At that time, REST was considered one of the most promising avenues for speeding up demining operations and making them more cost-efficient, in the spirit of the land release concept. GICHD got involved in the REST project aiming to develop a fully operational system, based on a well organised research process. It was hoped sufficient scientific evidence would enable operators to use it with a high level of reliability. Although the overall objective has not been reached, increased knowledge gathered has proved valuable in operations with dogs and rats. It has also had application for research findings outside of MA.

This publication provides a summary of historical perspectives and empirical results for various research tracts explored through REST.