The Wapiabi prescribed fire continues to be active today and is burning within the planned containment area. Smoke may be visible in the Nordegg area and areas to the southeast. Smoke conditions should start to subside by late Tuesday afternoon.
Prescribed fires are the proactive, knowledgeable and controlled applications of fire to accomplish well-defined resource management objectives. These fires are applied under select weather conditions and managed to minimize risk and maximize the benefits to the site. This prescribed fire has established a fuel break in the area and will improve ungulate
The Bighorn, Sunkay and Wapiabi Caves trails will be closed to the public during starting May 22n
Temperatures are heating up in the Rocky Forest Area resulting in a increased wildfire danger. There is still a Fire Advisory in place which means safe campfires are allowed but remember to be safe by always having a bucket of water next to your fire and always fully extinguish your campfire. Soak the ashes, stir them and soak them again until they are cool to the touch. Report wildfires by calling 310-FIRE(3473).
A fire advisory is in effect for the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area until conditions improve, see a MAP. The advisory is due to persistent dry weather, and the dry grass wildfire hazard. Dry grass provides fuel for fast moving wildfires.
Under the Advisory
- All fire permits are suspended and new fire permits will not be issued until conditions improve
Prohibited
- Any burning (except campfires) within the Forest Protection Area.
- All fire permits (except burn barrels) are now suspended.
Allowed
- Safe wood campfires in campgrounds (within fire rings) or random camping areas
- Charcoal briquettes
- Portable propane fire pits
- Catalytic or infrared-style heaters
- Permitted burn barrels.
Please note: the fire advisory does not apply to towns, villages or summer villages embedded in the Forest Protection Area, residents can check Albertafirebans.ca, or the Alberta Fire Bans app for Android or Apple devices for local advisories, restrictions or bans.
Barry A. Shellian RPFT
Area Information Coordinator
Rocky Wildfire Management Area
Department of Agriculture and Forestry
P 403.845.8351
May the Forest be with you