The Prince Albert Grand Council has put together a new task force to look into how wildfires are managed in northern Saskatchewan.
Grand Chief Brian Hardlotte says a resolution was passed at the PAGC Fall Assembly to have a more meaningful and active dialogue with the Ministry of Environment’s Wildfire Management Branch.
The task force is designed to provide an independent review of the current Saskatchewan Wildfire Management strategies.
Hardlotte says correct procedures in the past could have prevented much damage in the north.
“Had an immediate response and appropriate action taken place, the amount of land destroyed by these wildfires would not have been so immense,” said Hardlotte. “As a result, the ability of our First Nations to sustain themselves has been lost for years to come since our First Nations people continue to rely on the land and animals for food and sustenance, as well as traditional medicines that support our overall health and well-being.”
Chief Peter Beatty of Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation says the current strategy failed to protect the forests where a Timber Lease Agreement exists.
“Trappers cabins (TRUs), equipment and personal items were lost during last year’s wildfires, but they have yet to receive any compensation,” said Beatty.
The task force is the first step by PAGC to help reform the current system before the beginning of a new fire season.
Officials with the government say that although they are not involved with the task force, they look forward to hearing their recommendations.
“For now, the task force does not involve the Ministry of Environment. This is First Nations having discussions with First Nations stakeholders and providing recommendations on wildfire management to us,” said Steve Roberts, the executive director of the provincial wildfire management branch.
“We do have a good working relationship with the PAGC in wildfire management, so it will be interesting to see what their task group can provide us for consideration moving forward.”
The first meeting is set for January 26.
(PHOTO: A September 2017 wildfire burns near the Hanson Lake Road. Photo by Saskatchewan Highways.)