Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC)'s Wildfire Task Force. (submitted photo/Tina Pelletier)

By Nigel Maxwell

Environment

PAGC calls for proactive strategies to address anticipated busy wildfire season

Jan 30, 2024 | 4:00 PM

Citing major evacuations that occurred last year and a forecast that predicts an unusually warm beginning to the next wildfire season, Prince Albert Grand Council (PAGC)’s Wildfire Task Force wants the provincial government to stay a step ahead and consider use of local firefighting teams.

The task force, which was established in 2018, and includes First Nation leaders and wildfire management experts, recently met to deliberate on the imminent wildfire threats to northern Saskatchewan. Chair Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte has called for increased vigilance and proactive strategies to protect First Nations in northern Saskatchewan, who not only face evacuation threats but also rely heavily on the land for their way of life.

“The prospect of a warmer wildfire season coupled with diminished snowfall underscores the necessity for preventive action to ensure the well-being of our communities. The protection of our territories and our people is paramount, and we cannot afford to be reactive,” he said.

Meetings were held in Stanley Mission. (submitted photo/Tina Pelletier)

Reports from the Canadian Forest Service have indicated an unusually warm beginning to the 2024 wildfire season, necessitating a state of “high alert for 2024.”

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In 2023, 505 fires were reported and burned approximately 1.9 million hectares of land, which is about five times the size of Prince Albert National Park.

That large amount of land burnt contributed to the partial and full evacuations of some Northern communities, including La Loche, Buffalo Narrows, and Deschambault Lake.

Task Force member Senator Peter Beatty voiced strong confidence in the capabilities of local firefighting teams, and emphasized the potential of these teams not only within the province but also their capability to assist other provinces in need.

“These men and women are not only well-trained and experienced but ready to assist across provinces, reducing the need for international support. It’s time we acknowledge and utilize our homegrown talent to its fullest potential.”

The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) has pledged to work in close association with the PAGC to foster community-driven wildfire management and prevention initiatives, learning from the past years of unprecedented wildfire activity in northern Saskatchewan.

“We’re aiming to reinforce our defenses and encourage community-led initiatives in wildfire management and prevention. Working with PAGC is crucial. Together, we will strengthen our defenses against the wildfire threat,” said SPSA Vice President of Operations Steve Roberts.

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On X: @nigelmaxwell