It turns out that BC requires any total trailer load over 6100 lbs requires the brakes to be "operator controlled" and surge brakes do not qualify for this.

Does anyone know if you can reasonably convert surge to electric?

Replace the actuator (tongue) with an electric over hydraulic one. It uses the same brakes that are already on your axles but is controlled by an electrical controller in the cab.

http://www.southwestwheel.com/store/c-27-elec-hyd-actuators.aspx

But they are kind of expensive.

Other option is to go with water-tight electric brakes. You will have to take the old brakes off and replace the the entire braking system. It might be cheaper, it might not. I don't really know. Member Seadog changed his trailer over a couple of year ago. You might PM him if he does not reply to this thread.

Both systems are going to require in-cab controllers...but sometimes the Electric over hydraulic system is not compatible with the same controller was the standard electric system.