Saskatchewan auditor finds public safety agency lacks planning to fight wildfires

Denare Beach, Sask., is seen from the air in a June 21, 2025, handout photo. Homes destroyed by a wildfire are seen in the centre-right. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Handout - Will Penner (Mandatory Credit)

REGINA — A report from Saskatchewan’s auditor says the province’s public safety agency needs to do a better job at preparing for the wildfire season.

Tara Clemett’s report says the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency does not plan for the optimal amount of resources it needs each year to fight wildfires.

She says the agency also isn’t properly budgeting before the season begins.

Clemett says robust planning and budgeting would ensure the agency is prepared.

She says planning could also save the agency money, as it might not be as reliant on expensive short-term contractors.

The finding comes after a third-party review this month found the agency was ill-prepared to fight last year’s wildfires that destroyed communities and displaced thousands of residents.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 23, 2026.

Jeremy Simes, The Canadian Press