Ian Hnatowich

Ian Hnatowich serves as the Operations Chief for TREX 2026 and is the Manager of Natural Resources with the Wanuskewin Heritage Park Authority. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Renewable Resource Management and a Master’s degree in Soil Science from the University of Saskatchewan. Ian’s academic and professional work has focused on ecological restoration, including innovative approaches to restoring industrially disturbed sites in Canada’s Low-Arctic Tundra. Since returning to the Prairies, he has led initiatives in invasive species management, native species reintroduction, habitat enhancement, and prescribed fire. As Wanuskewin’s representative with the Canadian Prairies Prescribed Fire Exchange (CPPFE) since 2022, Ian has participated in more than 30 prescribed fire operations across North America, serving in roles ranging from crew member to Incident Commander. His extensive experience, technical expertise, and commitment to practitioner development make him a vital member of the TREX Incident Management Team, helping advance prescribed fire capacity and landscape stewardship across the Prairies.