Wildfires in Canada

This presentation gives a general overview of large-scale factors that influence the patterns and occurrence of wildland fire across Canada. It includes key aspects of the fire regime, which is characterized by the frequency, annual area burned, size, intensity, seasonality, and cause of fires across the country. Lastly, the presentation goes through long-term trends we are currently seeing in Canada’s fire regime. OUR SPEAKER: Dr. Chelene Hanes is a prominent figure in wildland fire research, currently serving as a key expert at the Canadian Forest Service (CFS) within Natural Resources Canada (NRCAN). With extensive experience in fire behavior research, fire weather, and drought impacts on wildfire activity, Chelene has made significant contributions to the understanding of how environmental factors influence fire regimes in Canada. Her work at the intersection of science and operational fire management has positioned her as a thought leader in promoting evidence-based practices for wildfire danger prediction and understanding. Chelene's role at CFS includes advancing our understanding of wildfire danger, collaborating with national and international partners, and contributing to major initiatives that address the increasing complexity of wildfire management in the context of climate change. Known for her strategic thinking and dedication to capacity building, she is deeply involved in efforts to develop tools and models within the Canadian Forest Fire Danger Rating System, the primary decision-making tool used by wildfire management. Chelene lives in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario with her husband and two daughters.