The wildfire season in Alberta officially begins tomorrow (March 1), and there are significantly fewer active wildfires than there were this time last year.
Minister of Forestry and Parks, Todd Loewen, released a statement today, reminding people of the importance of being prepared and proactive when it comes to the wildfire season.
"Alberta has faced unprecedented wildfire challenges, and our government is committed to a three-pronged approach to wildfire preparations: prevention, mitigation and readiness to respond," Minister Loewen explained in the statement.
While the key to wildfire prevention is stopping the fires before they begin, every Albertan needs to understand their role in wildfire preventions.
Because of that, the Alberta government will increase its public awareness campaigns and promote safe practices for outdoor activities while still enforcing fire bans once they become required.
"Every small effort counts in preventing wildfires and protecting our communities and natural resources."
Not only are they increasing public awareness, but the provincial government is also strengthening their wildfire mitigation work through controlled burns that create firebreaks on top of managing the forest's vegetation to minimize the amount of available fuel for wildfires.
These wildfire control projects are currently happening in a few areas across the province, including in the Bow Valley near Canmore.
Last year, 38 FireSmart projects in Alberta were funded by the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta (FRIAA), providing them with more than $3.4 million.
"These measures focus on wildfire prevention and mitigation, educating communities on fire safety and supporting local emergency response plans," Loewen adds.
As part of Budget 2025, the Alberta government is investing in the resources and technology required for firefighting efforts by providing $160 million in base funding for wildfire personnel, equipment, training, and contracts for dozers, aircraft, and night-vision-equipped helicopters.
"This ensures we can mobilize significant resources quickly and effectively when needed," Minister Loewen explains. "I have every confidence in our wildfire teams and their ability to meet the challenges ahead."
Even though the wildfire season officially begins on Saturday, there are currently 10 active fires in the province, which is just a fraction of how many were burning this time last year.
At the start of the wildfire season last year, there were almost 60 wildfires.
Minister Loewen says this reduced number is in large part due to the hard work of the province's wildland firefighters and support teams, as well as the resilience shown by communities, and last year's investment, preparations, and quick response to the wildfires in the province.
"As Albertans take the time to enjoy our incredible outdoor opportunities this year, it is important to remember we all have a shared responsibility in preventing wildfires. I encourage everyone to follow fire bans and restrictions, remember you must have a permit for any burning in the Forest Protection Area, and follow the soak it, stir it and soak it again method to ensure your campfires are extinguished completely."
He adds that working together will help us to be ready for whatever the 2025 wildfire season will bring.