This scientist changing our understanding of forest fires has been recognized by her hometown | CBC News

In her time researching wildfires, Chelene Hanes has watched a changing climate change our understanding of how forests burn.

Hanes, a wildland fire research scientist with Natural Resources Canada, says researchers are updating their models to account for a warmer planet. 

“In the past our models assumed, for example, that we don’t typically get a lot of night time burning,” she said.

Hanes said nights are generally less humid now than they were in the past, which means conditions are more apt for fires.

Some wildfires also get so large and hot that they create their own weather conditions.

“We haven’t had extensive numbers of these before,” Hanes said.

Research from the Canadian Fire Service (CFS), a branch of Natural Resources Canada, helps develop new and better ways to fight wildfires.

Hanes is based in Sault Ste. Marie, Ont. and was one of two people this year to receive the city’s medal of merit.

“Dr. Hanes has not only enhanced the scholarly landscape of the community but has also ignited a passion for climate change, forest fire, and drought management in others,” the city said in its announcement for the recognition.

Hanes said she was surprised and humbled to receive Sault Ste. Marie’s medal of merit and that it was members of her hockey team who nominated her for the award.

She said she has been fortunate to be able to conduct her research in northern Ontario.

“It’s a great privilege to be able to work here and we’re doing internationally renowned research, you know, in my hometown,” Hanes said.

“I truly feel lucky that I’m able to do that and that I was recognized for my contribution to the extensive legacy of research that’s been done in fire within the CFS.”