Grande Prairie Area Update

Grande Prairie Forest Area Wildfire Update - May 3, 2024

Written by Kelly Burke | May 3, 2024 10:21:55 PM

The wildfire danger in the Grande Prairie Forest Area is HIGH.  During times of high wildfire danger, grass fires can start and spread fast. It is important to use caution while working or recreating in Alberta’s forests. A fire restriction is in effect for the Grande Prairie Forest Area.

Wildfire information

Since January 1, 2024, 25 wildfires have been reported in the Grande Prairie Forest Area burning nearly 85 hectares. 

2023 carryover wildfires

There are currently three carryover fires from the 2023 wildfire season. All carryover wildfires are listed as under control and are being monitored by firefighters.

Sturgeon Lake Cree Nation Hazard Reduction Burn

The Sturgeon Lake Fire Department will continue to removing fine fuel loading along ditches, open fields, trails and other recreation areas this weekend. This hazard reduction burning will lessen the risk of man-caused fires and help protect homes and community infrastructure from future wildfires. Hazard reduction burning is done in a controlled manner with trained professionals with appropriate equipment onsite.

Smoke may be visible near Sturgeon lake and the surrounding areas. Any smoke produced during the burning is, however, expected to quickly dissipate. 

A fire restriction is in effect for all of the Forest Protection Area of Alberta, excluding the Calgary Forest Area.

  • Under this restriction:
    -       Existing fire permits are restricted, suspended or cancelled and no new fire permits will be issued.
    -       Safe wood campfires within fire rings in campgrounds are allowed.
     
    Prohibited on public lands, including backcountry and random camping areas:
    -       All outdoor wood fires.
    -       Fires fueled exclusively by charcoal briquettes.
    -       The use of fireworks and exploding targets.
     
    Allowed in designated campgrounds on private and public land, designated day use areas and on privately owned land:
    -       Safe wood campfires.
    -       Backyard fire pits, charcoal briquette barbeques.
    -       Propane/ natural gas-powered appliances CSA approved or UL certified.
     
    Never leave a campfire unattended. Soak it, stir it and soak it again until cool to the touch to ensure it is extinguished.

    If you see a wildfire, report it immediately by calling 310-FIRE.

  • For more information: Fire Restriction Fact Sheet

    The fire restriction will remain in effect until conditions improve.

    Stay informed on fire restrictions and fire bans in your area bay checking www.albertafirebans.ca

Fire permits

Before you burn it, get a fire permit. Fire permits help us to track what is burning on the landscape. Anyone living outside the Forest Protection Area can contact their municipality for information about local fire permit requirements.
Albertans living or working in the Forest Protection Area of the province can request a free fire permit by contacting your local forestry office or using the new, convenient online Fire Permit Portal. 

County West / Grovedale - (780) 814-1648
Spirit River - (780) 814-1983
Valleyview - (780) 524-6576

View a video fire permits about by clicking here!

The Forest and Prairie Protection Act and associated regulations legislates the use, discharge or detonation of exploding targets within the FPA of Alberta. Written permission to discharge or detonate is required under the act.

Alberta Peace Officers may issue warning or violation tickets under the act. Violators can be ticketed at $600. Individuals who knowingly contravene the act and start a wildfire can be further prosecuted in the courts.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police may also pursue additional charges under legislation that includes mischief or arson under the Criminal Code of Canada.


Download the Alberta Wildfire app today and get access to real-time information on wildfires in your area. You can also find information on reporting wildfire, fire bans and fire updates across the province and much more all on your mobile device.

Available for Apple and Android.

To view wildfires on a map, download the AB Wildfire App or visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard

During times of low to moderate wildfire danger, updates will be issued weekly. However, when the danger escalates to high or extreme levels, updates will be provided daily if fires are active and/ or out of control. Expect your next wildfire update on May 6, 2024, unless conditions change.

 

Kelly Burke | Wildfire Information Officer

(780) 832-7235
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