Update on wildfires in Saskatchewan

We are committed to providing updates to the campus community during the state of emergency brought on by the wildfires throughout Saskatchewan.

This message will provide an update on how USask is working with emergency responders, provide information on how members of the USask community can support those affected by the wildfires, and outline supports for those who need them. 

If you or your loved ones are affected by this situation, available support to help navigate this difficult time are listed at the end of this message.   

How we are helping  

As the wildfires continue to have far-reaching impact throughout the province, USask is supporting the needs outlined and led by the emergency responders in this situation, such as the Province's Safety Agency and the City of Saskatoon Emergency Management Office. This includes: 

  • Starting on Monday, June 9, providing accommodations and meals for about 200 evacuees (with up to 400 by the end of next week). At this time, priority 1 evacuees, those with health issues, elderly, or families with small children, will be staying with us; 
  • Providing accommodations to Red Cross staff and volunteers during this emergency; and  
  • Working to ensure any USask students who are displaced due to the wildfires have accommodations.  

While the air quality alert from Environment Canada has been lifted in some parts of the province, we encourage you to monitor alerts as smoke levels can change quickly and affect air quality.  

Our Facilities team works to balance building ventilation systems to manage the impact of incoming smoke and building air quality at our Saskatoon campus. However, if your area is experiencing air quality issues, please speak with your People Leader to consider implementing procedures and materials to reduce the impact of smoke.  Safety Resources is available at safetyresources@usask.ca to support People Leaders in identifying and implementing a customized plan for their workplace.   

How you can help 

We know many members of the USask community are also working to support those affected and we thank you for your continued help. Through the Canadian Red Cross and the City of Saskatoon Emergency Management Office, we have been advised that the best way to contribute is through the Canadian Red Cross. Donations to the Canadian Red Cross will be used to assist those impacted in Saskatchewan with immediate and ongoing relief including, registration, reception and information, emergency accommodations, meals and personal services. 

If you would like to contribute to help those impacted by wildfires in Saskatchewan, please visit 2025 Saskatchewan Wildfires Appeal  or call 1-800-418-1111. The Government of Canada announced that it will match every dollar donated to the Canadian Red Cross 2025 Saskatchewan Wildfires Appeal to support wildfire disaster relief and recovery efforts across Saskatchewan. 

Financial donations are encouraged by the Canadian Red Cross at this time. Physical donations of goods are not being requested. We will continue to update the campus community on how best to support evacuees. 

If you need help 

If you or your loved ones are affected by this situation there are supports available to you as you navigate or help someone navigate this difficult time. If you are aware of anyone who may be affected, please feel free to share this message and encourage them to reach out. Please take care of yourself and each other.    

Student resources available:  

Faculty and staff resources:  

  • Telus Health App is USask’s Employee and Family Assistance Program (EFAP) provider, and offers a wide range of services including free and confidential counselling, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.  
  • For eligible employees, your benefit plan covers mental health supports including clinical counsellors, marriage and family therapists, psychologists, psychotherapists and social workers.