After spending two weeks back in Wrigley, N.W.T., residents are expressing relief as life in the community has mostly returned to normal following a recent wildfire evacuation. Gabriel Hardisty, a long-time resident of Wrigley, shared that the community appears unchanged, with everyone resuming their daily activities. Residents have gone back to work, and students have resumed their roles through student programs.

The hamlet, home to around 130 individuals, was evacuated on June 29 due to a nearby wildfire. Evacuees sought refuge in Fort Smith until the evacuation alert was lifted on July 29, allowing them to return home. Firefighting crews worked for over 10 days during the evacuation to establish fire breaks and implement precautionary measures to safeguard the community.

Upon their return, residents noticed significant changes, including the clearing of areas around the community for fire breaks. Wesley Pellissey, a former resident and member of Pehdzeh Ki First Nation, highlighted the creation of fuel breaks in various locations, enhancing protection against future wildfires. Pellissey also mentioned the felling of trees, such as spruce near a relative’s home, as part of the community’s defense strategy.

Despite some remaining concerns about unburned forest fuel on the east side of the community, residents like Pellissey feel confident in the community’s enhanced wildfire defenses. Pellissey emphasized the importance of the implemented fire guards and sprinkler lines in fortifying Wrigley against potential future threats. Overall, residents are grateful to be back home, with Pellissey expressing relief at seeing their properties intact and the community safe.