FireSmart and the Birchwood Trails
FireSmart preventative measures lessen the threat and effects of wildfires. Preventing wildfires is a responsibility that extends to all of our community-residents, government, and industry alike. Over the next couple of months contract crews will be burning debris from the thinning and pruning of trees along the Birchwood Trails.This burn will be monitored continuously to minimize smoke and for safety. For detailed information visit the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo. If you have questions or concerns call the Pulse Line at 780-743-7000.
Burn piles during the winter months
Keep piles tall, tight and dirt free: to achieve a clean burn avoid mixing mineral soil with the debris. Piles should be built to a height of 3 meters in a beehive shape.
Check and re-check for winter holdovers: deep layers of organic soils are common throughout the Fort McMurray forest area. This organic material may ignite under debris piles and smolder during the winter months.
Check all winter burn piles before the wildfire season begins. Dig deep in the ashes and check for heat.
The Alberta Government is improving legislation that supports wildfire prevention and helps protect communities. For more information read the complete press release.
HORSE RIVER WILDFIRE (MWF-009-16)
As of July 4, the wildfire is classified as UNDER CONTROL. The wildfire is completely contained and will be extinguished. The scanning for hot spots will continue and as they are identified, they will be actioned by wildland firefighters. The wildfire is estimated at 589,552 hectares in size (including the portion within Saskatchewan).
CONTACTS
Inside the Urban Service Area contact: Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo 780-792-5519
Outside the Urban Service Area contact: Agriculture and Forestry at 780-743-7125
Lynn Daina
Area Information Coordinator
Fort McMurray Forest Area
office: 780-743-7265 | mobile: 780-799-9253
lynn.daina@gov.ab.ca