Rocky Mountain House Area Update

Rocky Wildfire Update - May 13, 2017

Posted on Sat, May 13, 2017

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Fire Advisory has been lifted

The Fire Advisory for the Rocky Forest Area has been lifted as of today May 13, 2017 at at 9:30 am. Thank you for your cooperation.

Wildfire Hazard
Recent and forecasted rain has reduced the wildfire hazard to LOW in the Rocky Forest Area. 
However, cured grass can quickly dry. Always be careful.

Provincial Summary (10:00 am May 12)
- There are currently 9 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. 1 wildfire is under control and 8 have been turned over to the responsible parties.
- Fire Danger Rating: High in the northern end of the province. Low to moderate elsewhere.
- Since March 1, 2017, Alberta has recorded 201 wildfires in the Forest Protection Area that have burned a total of 644.53 hectares. 

Burn it with a permit
- It's wildfire season which means fire permits are now required for burning within the Forest Protection Area (excluding campfires). To obtain a free permit, visit firepermits.alberta.ca or call toll free 310-0000.  

Crop Burning
- Crop burning should be used as a final management option for unharvested crops. Consider baling, removing crop from field and later burning away from field.

Research has shown that burning crop residues has many negative effects. Burning reduces soil organic matter, carbon and nitrogen and can have negative effects on soil erosion, permeability and air quality. Burning disrupts the balance of microorganisms in the soil reducing the biological activity and overall soil health.

If crop burning is a necessity and you live in the Forest Protection Area you must obtain a permit from your area fire guardian and must adhere to safe burning practices.

Wildfire Information:

Download the Alberta Wildfire app for Apple or Android devices. 
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Subscribe to the Rocky wildfire blog and receive an email when new information is posted. 

To report a wildfire, call 310-FIRE (3473).

Barry A. Shellian RPFT
Area Information Coordinator
Rocky Forest Area
Department of Agriculture and Forestry
P 403.845.8351

May the Forest be with you

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