Dr. Roy Vera-Velez

Roy Vera-Velez serves as the Planning Chief for TREX and is the Prescribed Fire Science Coordinator and Grassland Ecologist with the Canadian Prairies Prescribed Fire Exchange (CPPFE) at Meewasin. He holds a PhD in Biology from the University of Saskatchewan and completed a postdoctoral fellowship in grassland and fire ecology, specializing in the interactions between prescribed fire, grazing, and plant communities. Roy’s expertise spans fire ecology, grassland restoration, biodiversity conservation, invasive species management, vegetation monitoring, and adaptive land management. Through his work, he collaborates with researchers, land managers, Indigenous communities, government agencies, and non-profit organizations to advance science-based prescribed fire practices across the Canadian Prairies. His leadership, scientific expertise, and commitment to building partnerships help support resilient and healthy grassland ecosystems.