Christmas Tree Harvest Reduces Wildfire Threat in Sask. NOW

UPDATE: The 10th annual Christmas tree harvest at Prince Albert National Park is officially underway, helping to significantly reduce the wildfire threat in Northern Saskatchewan. Families are invited to cut down their holiday trees while contributing to fire prevention efforts in the area.

This year’s harvest, taking place in December 2023, allows participants to remove trees from the designated fuel break surrounding Waskesiu, a townsite located approximately 200 kilometers north of Saskatoon. The initiative serves a dual purpose: providing families with a festive tree while enhancing community safety.

The fuel break, spanning about 300 hectares, is critical in mitigating wildfire risks. “Removing these coniferous trees – these spruce, these pines, these firs – creates a greenbelt,” stated Parks Canada spokesperson Jacelyn Perret. “In the event of a wildfire, having those trees thinned out would slow the speed of an approaching wildfire and help give time for the community to prepare.”

Every spring, the park conducts prescribed burns to eliminate dead vegetation, and the fall tree harvest helps maintain the fuel break. Last year, approximately 160 trees were harvested, with plans for the event to continue as young trees flourish in the area.

For many families, the Christmas tree harvest has transformed into a cherished tradition. William Barrett and his wife Katie have made the trip from Saskatoon for the past three years to find their ideal tree. “I have a very specific type of tree that I want,” Katie shared, highlighting her wish for volume, shape, and size in their holiday tree.

Each year, the Barretts enjoy a weekend at the national park, a place of special significance where they got engaged. “It’s just big family time,” William expressed. The couple looks forward to continuing this tradition with their growing family, including a daughter expected in February. “We’re excited to keep the tradition sort of alive,” William said.

Katie called the experience a “win-win,” emphasizing the joy of creating lasting holiday memories while assisting in wildfire management. “You’re kind of killing two birds with one stone helping with wildfire management,” she noted, reflecting on their commitment to the community they love.

With the ongoing tree harvest, the local community comes together to celebrate the holidays while proactively addressing wildfire risks, making this event more than just a festive outing—it’s a vital contribution to public safety in Saskatchewan.

Stay tuned for updates as the harvest progresses and more families participate in this important initiative, reinforcing community bonds while protecting the environment.