Good afternoon, everyone.
I'd like to welcome our first panel, which is related to our study of the factors leading to the recent fires in Jasper National Park.
We have with us Mr. Ken Hodges, testifying as an individual. From the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association, we have Randy Schroeder, president. From the Department of Natural Resources, we have Glenn Hargrove, assistant deputy minister, Canadian forest service; Michael Norton, director general, northern forestry centre, who is online; and Dan Thompson, research scientist, forest fires, in person. From Forests Ontario, we have Jessica Kaknevicius, chief executive officer, also online.
Each witness or group of witnesses will have five minutes for opening statements.
We'll start with you, Mr. Hodges, for five minutes.
Before we start, for the witnesses who are here in person, we take good care not to damage the hearing of our interpreters, so please refrain from touching the stem of your microphone. If you are taking your earpiece off, please put it face down on the round decal that you'll find on the desk.
Mr. Hodges, the floor is yours.