Jeremy Mumford
M.Sc. Student, Environment and Geography, University of Manitoba
Photo Credit: Jeremy Mumford
Jeremy Mumford is a Master's student in Environment and Geography at the University of Manitoba. His research focuses on prescribed fire in the Prairie region, with particular attention to public attitudes, governance, and fire stewardship across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. He is interested in understanding how social, institutional, and political factors influence the use of prescribed fire as a land management tool and how fire can contribute to healthier, more resilient prairie ecosystems. His broader interests include prairie conservation, ecological restoration, environmental and social justice, and community-engaged research that supports long-term environmental stewardship.
Research Project
Public Attitudes, Governance, and Prescribed Fire in Prairie Management Across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba
Prescribed fire is an important land management tool that can improve prairie ecosystem health, reduce fuel loads, support biodiversity, and maintain fire-adapted landscapes. Despite its ecological benefits, the broader use of prescribed fire is often influenced by public perceptions, governance structures, policy environments, and institutional capacity. As interest grows in using prescribed fire for prairie conservation and wildfire risk reduction, understanding these social and governance dimensions has become increasingly important.
Jeremy's research examines how prescribed fire is perceived by residents across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba and explores the factors that shape public support, concerns, and awareness. The project investigates how attitudes toward prescribed burning vary across different regions and communities, while also examining the governance and institutional challenges that influence prescribed fire implementation and stewardship.
Using a combination of social science research methods, this study seeks to identify patterns in public opinion and better understand the relationship between community perspectives, policy frameworks, and land management decision-making. The research will provide practical insights for agencies, land managers, conservation organizations, and policymakers working to advance prescribed fire programs in the Prairie Provinces.
By improving understanding of the social dimensions of prescribed fire, this project aims to support more effective communication, outreach, and decision-making around fire management. The findings will contribute to strengthening prairie fire stewardship, promoting informed public engagement, and supporting the long-term conservation and resilience of prairie ecosystems across Western Canada.