High Level Forest Area - May 15, 2025
The fire danger level remains high throughout the entire High Level Forest Area (HLFA). This means that grasses, leaves and other vegetation are dry in communities and much of the forest area, which could support a fast-moving wildfire. Please use caution if you are spending time or working outside.
Wildfire situation
HWF020, which was located approximately 40 km southwest of the Town of High Level, is now extinguished.
In 2025, there have been 28 wildfires in the HLFA to date, burning 61 hectares (ha).
To view wildfires on a map and for live updates, download the AB Wildfire App or visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard. Learn more about wildfire status definitions used in Alberta.
Fire permits
Under the current fire restriction, all previously issued fire permits are suspended, and new ones will not be issued until conditions change.
During the official wildfire season (Mar. 1 to Oct. 31), fire permits are required for any burning, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. When being issued, fire permits are free and can be requested online or from the HLFA main office at 780-926-5407.
Fire restriction
A fire restriction is now in effect for the entire High Level Forest Area. Under this restriction, all outdoor wood fires are banned on public lands, all previously issued fire permits are now suspended, and no new permits will be issued until conditions change.
Prohibited
- Outdoor wood fires on public lands, including backcountry and random camping areas
- Any burning, other than a campfire on private land
- Fireworks and exploding targets
Allowed
- Safe wood campfires on private land, including provincial campgrounds with a designated fire ring
- Backyard firepits
- Propane fire pits and natural gas-powered appliances
- Barbecue charcoal briquettes
- Indoor wood fires
- Open flame oil devices
The fire restriction will remain in effect until conditions improve.
To learn more, visit Alberta Fire Bans.
Community Outreach
The High Level Forest Area (HLFA) participates in many community events throughout the year. Our staff also reaches out to schools and other organizations in the area, providing interactive presentations for all ages.
HLFA staff supported the Northern Lights Forest Education Society's social and science studies field trip at Machesis Lake on May 15, discussing various aspects of forestry management and wildfire prevention with junior high school students from the area.
Spring conditions
As forest and other areas dry out, the risk of a wildfire igniting in dry grass and vegetation like twigs, small branches and brush, increases. Keep a close watch of your surroundings when working and recreating outdoors and consider applying FireSmart techniques around your home and property.
Hazard-reduction burns
Forest officers, supported by firefighters and working closely with local authorities and fire departments, conducted hazard-reduction burns in the communities of Chateh and Tall Cree First Nation in early May. These controlled burns, which are conducted under close supervision, are aimed at reducing the amount of dry — and potentially very flammable — vegetation around communities and specific facilities and areas.
Published on May 15, 2025 5:33 pm
Wildfire season runs March 1 – October 31.
From March 1 to October 31, all burning activities in the Forest Protection Area, excluding campfires, require a fire permit.
Prevent wildfires by checking on winter burn sites. Winter burns can smoulder underground and often reignite in the spring. Extinguish a fire by soaking it, stirring it, and soaking it again.
Contact info
Mark Giles
780-285-4490
mark.giles@gov.ab.ca