Research: TRU Wildfire | Thompson Rivers University

At the Institute for Wildfire Science, Adaptation and Resiliency (IWSAR), TRU Wildfire is advancing bold, interdisciplinary research that responds to the growing challenges of a changing climate. In collaboration with BC Wildfire Service and other partners, we bridge science, knowledge, and practice to shape wildfire solutions for tomorrow.

Institute for Wildfire Science, Adaptation and Resiliency (IWSAR)

There is a critical need for new knowledge to match the dramatic shifts brought on by our changing climate, as shown by increased wildfire activity and severity. At the Institute for Wildfire Science, Adaptation and Resiliency, groundbreaking research and innovation is addressing this need and contributing solutions to adapt to the new reality of wildfire.

The wildfire institute provides a key source of research and innovation for TRU Wildfire’s research-informed education and training. In partnership with the BC Wildfire Service, TRU Wildfire links research, education, training and innovation to better prevent, prepare for, respond to, and recover from wildfire.

The wildfire institute, which complements other areas of intersecting wildfire-related research happening across the university, is focused on growing research in four core areas: fire science, Indigenous fire stewardship, community and social resiliency, and health and wellbeing.

TRU Wildfire operates the IWSAR and has a research to practice and practice to research approach, as it brings together academic research, acknowledges the importance of traditional knowledge and on-the-ground expertise. Advances at the wildfire institute will be rapidly translated into TRU Wildfire’s education, training and innovation.

Located on the traditional and unceded lands of the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc within Secwépemcúl’ecw, TRU and IWSAR recognize the deep and enduring relationships between Indigenous Peoples and fire. We acknowledge the knowledge, care, and responsibility carried by Indigenous Fire Keepers, who have practiced cultural burning and fire stewardship since time immemorial. Their expertise is foundational to understanding and living with fire in these territories, and we are committed to learning from, supporting, and building respectful partnerships with Indigenous communities in all wildfire-related research, education, and practice.