Buhl Fire Contained; Waskesiu Community Celebrates Reopening

BREAKING: The Buhl Fire has been successfully contained, allowing the Waskesiu community to breathe a sigh of relief as they celebrate the lifting of evacuation orders and fire bans. Thanks to significant rainfall over the past week, the fire, which began on June 29, now poses no threat to local residents.

This urgent update was confirmed by Parks Canada on August 15, with Jim Kerby, chair of the Waskesiu Community Council, stating, “The recent rainfall was a welcome sight for northern residents. A lot has happened in the last week or so, and for a change, all of it is great news for Waskesiu.”

The moisture has dramatically improved conditions, allowing the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) to manage the Buhl Fire as part of the Weyakwin Complex. Parks Canada will now provide updates on the Buhl Fire every Wednesday or when significant changes occur, ensuring the community stays informed.

Residents are eager to return to normalcy, with local businesses ready to welcome visitors again. “Make no mistake – Waskesiu is fully open for business,” Kerby emphasized. To boost tourism, the community has launched a new campaign, “Waskesiu is Waiting,” inviting everyone to enjoy the beautiful region.

The timing couldn’t be better, as visitors can enjoy free admission to Prince Albert National Park until September 2. Exciting events are on the horizon, including the highly anticipated Waskesiu Lakeside Music Festival, taking place from August 22-24. The festival promises a weekend filled with free family-friendly music and activities.

Kerby also mentioned upcoming events in September, such as the Reel Rave International Film Festival, the Saskatchewan Open Tennis Tournament, and the Outter Limits Fun Run. For more details about these events, visit www.waskesiurecreation.ca.

As of 10:30 a.m. on August 15, there are currently 79 active wildfires in Saskatchewan. Among them, five are categorized as contained, while 12 remain uncontained. Four communities, including the La Plonge Reserve and the Northern Hamlet of Jans Bay, remain under evacuation orders.

The Buhl Fire’s successful containment is a testament to the tireless efforts of firefighters and the favorable weather conditions. As Waskesiu gears up for a busy summer, residents and visitors alike can look forward to a vibrant community experience.

Stay tuned for further updates on the Buhl Fire and community events, and make sure to share the good news about Waskesiu’s recovery and reopening!