Bob Austman, a retired forestry professional with years of experience in fire management and the FireSmart program, recently visited wildfire-affected areas in the RM of Piney. He shared insights on wildfire risk, forest recovery, and what people can do to reduce hazards.
Retired foresters tour fire-affected forests
Austman joined about 20 retired forestry professionals to tour old research plots and plantation projects in southeastern Manitoba. “We looked at the state of the forests, their growth and overall health,” Austman said. “Despite challenges like insects, disease, and long-term drought, the forests are holding up relatively well.”
What makes a forest fire-prone
Austman explained how he gauges a forest’s fire risk. “Older coniferous forests with trees in decline, snapped branches, and lots of limbs on the ground—what we call coarse woody debris—dry out quickly and are more fire-prone,” he said.
Even healthy-looking evergreen forests can be flammable because of resin in the trees, while hardwoods such as ash, oak, and poplar are less prone to ignite.
The dual role of fire
Wildfires are often misunderstood, Austman said. “The boreal forest is naturally flammable. Fire is part of its life cycle, helping cones release seeds to start new growth. It can be destructive, but it’s also a renewal force.”
Small warning signs, like crunchy dead leaves and needles underfoot, can indicate high wildfire potential. “All it takes is a lightning strike or a spark from an ATV to ignite a fire,” he added.
Austman has noticed concerning changes in Manitoba’s forests.
“Forests are drying out more quickly due to below-average snowfall in winter and hot, dry spring winds. It puts us at extreme risk for wildfires,” he said.
How the public can help
Austman offered practical advice for everyone, even non-landowners.
“Avoid backcountry travel during hot, dry weather, clean out vehicle and ATV mufflers, never toss cigarette butts, and ensure campfires are fully extinguished,” he said. “These simple actions make a real difference.”
Forest recovery after a wildfire
The recovery process begins almost immediately. “At the burn sites we visited in Marchand and Piney, we saw grasses and young poplar saplings emerging. Coniferous trees will start growing next spring as cones open and seeds germinate,” Austman said. He noted that fireweed and returning pollinators like bees and butterflies are signs of renewal.
Austman shared one hopeful sight: “Walking through a burned plantation, I saw white-tailed deer tracks and evidence of browsing on young poplars. The animals survived and are returning to their familiar territory—it’s a strong message of resilience.”
Understanding wildfire risk levels
Austman explained how wildfire risk levels are determined.
“Five factors are considered: rainfall over the last 48 hours, wind speed, wind direction, humidity, and soil moisture. Combined, these determine if the risk is low, medium, high, or extreme.”
The role of prescribed burns
Prescribed burns are another tool to manage wildfire risk. “Under the right conditions, prescribed burns reduce fuel loads and lower the risk of severe wildfires. They are carefully monitored and communicated to residents to prevent panic,” Austman said.
Finding peace in the forest
Despite his work in fire management, Austman still enjoys the forest. “I can walk trails, pick berries, or just spend time in nature. It’s restorative—just a half-hour in the green can release endorphins and help you reset,” he said.
Austman concluded with a hopeful note about post-fire landscapes.
“Even after a fire, the forest comes back. Life persists, and we see signs of renewal every day.”
Learn more
Two guided forest tours planned in RM of Piney
The RM of Piney will host a free walking tour this fall, led by local forestry expert Bob Austman.
On Friday, September 26 from 1 to 3:30 p.m., the Goods from the Woods tour will visit Southeast Forest Products to see how logs from the region are turned into lumber, firewood, pallets, trusses and other products. The tour will also highlight sustainable forest management practices.
The tour is open to ages 12 and up, with space limited to 15 participants per event. Tours will proceed rain or shine, and attendees should dress for the weather. Participants will meet at the RM office in Vassar (6092 Boundary Street), where transportation will be provided to and from each site.
To reserve a spot, contact the RM office at 204-437-2284 or email candace@rmofpiney.mb.ca by the Monday before each tour.
-With files from Carly Koop.