Canadian Armed Forces crews leave Saskatchewan after weeks battling wildfires, as officials declare major blazes under control and evacuees return home.
Military Teams Begin Departure
Canadian Armed Forces crews deployed to Saskatchewan in July are now returning home after weeks of wildfire support. About 300 members were sent north to assist firefighting operations, joining international and provincial teams in tackling some of the most destructive blazes in recent memory.
Scale of the Wildfire Crisis
Officials from the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) described 2025 as the province’s largest wildfire season to date. More than 30 evacuation orders were issued since May, displacing thousands of residents. The number surpasses the average of three annual orders recorded over the past five years.
Current Situation on the Ground
As of Wednesday, 200 military personnel had been redeployed, with the remaining forces scheduled to leave by Friday. Australian crews and Quebec’s water bombers have also returned home, though teams from Mexico, North Dakota, Yukon, Ontario, and Parks Canada remain active.
Why Assistance Was Critical
SPSA vice-president of operations Steve Roberts emphasized the unprecedented demand for resources. “From the number of communities evacuated, this has by far been the largest fire season in Saskatchewan,” he said, noting that local and out-of-province crews were crucial in preventing greater losses.
Progress on Major Blazes
Several of the province’s largest fires have been brought under control in recent weeks. The Buhl, Ditch, Pisew, Shoe, Hawk, Wolf, and Sturgeon fires have stabilized, reducing immediate threats to nearby communities. Despite aggressive fire behaviour, Roberts confirmed there were no fatalities.
Ongoing Risks and Recovery
Two major wildfires—the Muskeg and Trail fires near Beauval—remain uncontained, though residents have been allowed to return. Beauval Mayor Rick Laliberte said the community is focused on recovery but remains cautious due to weakened, fire-damaged trees. “We have to get safety back into our community,” he said.
Looking Ahead
While the provincial fire ban has been lifted, several municipal restrictions remain in effect. With 49 active wildfires still burning, including six uncontained, authorities continue to monitor conditions closely. Officials say military assistance is unlikely to be recalled this season.
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