Saskatchewan wildfire agency VP to retire after critical review

Saskatchewan's Public Safety Agency (SPSA) and its vice-president of operations, Steve Roberts, have mutually agreed to advance his retirement date to June 30. The departure comes days after an independent report by MNP detailed "significant gaps" in the province's wildfire management, prevention, mitigation, and emergency preparedness during the 2025 season.

Minister Michael Weger stated that the SPSA "must do better" following the review's findings. The 2025 wildfire season was the second worst on record for Saskatchewan, burning approximately 2.9 million hectares and displacing about 10,000 residents. Around 400 homes were destroyed in Denar Beach.

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The Agency would like to thank Steve Roberts for his 20+ years of contributions and service to the Province of Saskatchewan.

The government plans to implement the report's recommendations, including hiring more full-time staff for winter mitigation work and summer firefighting support. The SPSA confirmed it will begin searching for Roberts' replacement and will start work on 11 priority actions outlined by the Saskatchewan government based on the MNP report.

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After reading this 107-page review, it is clear the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency must do better.