Rocky Mountain House Area Update

Winter Burning - Work Here - Christmas Trees

Posted on Tue, Dec 08, 2015

A fire permit is no longer required for burning inside the Forest Protection Area (FPA). We had a very dry summer and fall, the lack of water in the ground will allow a fire to burn deep. Even if you are just roasting a hot dog, that is a burn site. Make sure it is out, use lots of water or even snow!

Provincial Wildfire Summary | Year in Review
This year, people were responsible for 58 percent of all wildfires. While this percentage is slightly below last year, it's on par with the five-year average, the sheer number of wildfires is higher. Click on image to learn more.

infogra.jpg

Quick Tips on How To Successfully Burn This Winter
1.Build your burn pile at least 25 metres from trees and bushes and no more than 6 metres wide.
2.Surround your burn site with a 15 metre wide firegaurd, preferably ground that is cleared down to the mineral soil.
3.Carefully inspect the site in the days and weeks after your burn is complete to ensure it is completely out. If there are any hot areas, stir the debris and soak the ashes with water. Don't forget to check the ground for heat using a metal probe.

Anytime of the year, call 310-FIRE (3743) to report a wildfire

Junior Forest Rangers
We are looking for highly motivated, enthusiastic, dependable and outdoor-oriented individuals to lead our Junior Forest Ranger (JFR) crews.

The JFR program is an exciting seven-week summer work experience youth program, with a forestry and natural resource management focus. The program fosters an appreciation, awareness, and respect for our natural resources through exposure to work projects, natural resource management and career awareness opportunities in this field. Junior Forest Rangers

Christmas Tree permits
Tree permits are available online at aep.alberta.ca (search Christmas Tree permits) 
Permits are five dollars and are required for all cutting on provincial land. Each permit entitles you to cut three trees up to 2.5 metres.
With proper planning and attention, the selection, removal, transport and set up of your tree can be a very enjoyable and safe family activity. Remember that Alberta’s forests belong to everyone. Be sure not to cut your tree from private land.

Points to consider –
• When you get home, cut 3–5 cm. off the butt and to aid in water absorption.
• Fresh tree can use 1– 2 L or more of water a day so water daily.
• Keep your tree away from heat sources such as fireplaces, radiators and air ducts.
• When decorating, check electrical light cords for cracks or other where spot. Dispose of any       worn cords as they might pose a fire risk.
• Ensure your tree is stable. With pets and smallchildren running about, it is often advisable to       tie one or two guy wires from the tree to the wall.

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

 

Subscribe to Rocky Mountain House Updates