Residents had an opportunity to voice their concerns and frustration at the public meeting. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

being proactive

Recommendations for wildfire response given at Air Ronge community meeting

Aug 15, 2025 | 4:46 PM

Residents came together at the Air Ronge village office on Thursday to discuss the wildfire response in June and provide recommendations on how that response can be handled better in the future.

Air Ronge council called the meeting after former councillor Kristy McDougall wrote them a letter stating community members can play a larger role in wildfire prevention and mitigation efforts within the tri-communities if given the opportunity to do so.

In June, the Pisew fire forced nearly 7,000 residents from Air Ronge, La Ronge, the Lac La Ronge Indian Band and surrounding communities for 10 days. Several homes and businesses were destroyed during the emergency.

“I think we recognize people went through a lot of trauma through the evacuation and what this fire season has brought,” said Air Ronge Mayor Julie Baschuk.

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“We wanted to allow an opportunity and a safe space for our residents to talk freely and openly and share what their experiences have been and what their recommendations are, because this is our home and our community and we want to reflect their needs in our decision making.”

Residents spoke about the need for a more coordinated response and the spread of misinformation online. It was recommended that the tri-communities have a dedicated communications person for such disasters, and updates be provided on a website, not solely on social media.

There was also talk about addressing wildfire mitigation efforts, such as clearing bush and thinning the forest, as well as investing in pumps, sprinkler systems and hoses, or at least providing a rebate program for residents who wish to purchase such items on their own.

There was also a suggestion of compiling a list of able-bodied residents who are willing to stay behind and assist during evacuations, as well as determining what exactly their roles and responsibilities will be. Another recommendation included having the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency provide training to residents to become Type 1, 2 and 3 firefighters, so more people are ready and able to respond in the future.

The Pisew fire is seen on the outskirts of the La Ronge firebase on June 6, 2025. (Facebook/Cook-Searson Tammy Jim)

Baschuk noted Air Ronge council is committed to putting residents’ recommendations into action, and the specifics will be determined in the near future.

“I think it was very positive, very forward thinking,” she said about the meeting.

“I think it affirmed the direction council had made notes on hearing it come back from our community members in what they want to see [for] the future of FireSmart initiatives, so we are more proactive going forward.”

In addition, concerns were raised about the lack of timely support and assistance from the provincial government, along with the Canadian Red Cross. Residents also voice their frustration with the timing of the evacuation order, noting it should have been issued sooner.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com