West Country wildfire danger downgraded to low; debris burning near Nordegg

Due to continued winter conditions, Alberta Wildfire officials say the wildfire danger in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area remains low.

The low designation is down from the moderate designation issued on Feb. 12.

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RELATED

- Wildfire risk moderate; West Country fire “being held”

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Debris burning near the Hamlet of Nordegg

FireSmart work is continuing throughout the winter in selected areas of the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area, including the Hamlet of Nordegg.

Official say enough progress has been made on FireSmart treatments to safely begin debris burning.

As conditions allow, a debris pile burning near the north subdivision in Nordegg is expected to begin over the next week or so. Smoke may be visible for several weeks. Officials say this work supports ongoing wildfire risk mitigation in the area.

One wildfire

The Alberta government’s Wildfire Dashboard shows one wildfire in the West County — RWF005 — which is listed as ‘under investigation’.

A previous wildfire, RWF006 is no longer listed.

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RELATED

- Nordegg takes next steps in becoming a FireSmart community

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Winter burning

Current weather conditions are generally supportive of burning; however, officials say this does not eliminate risk and you should still take appropriate precautions.

If you plan to conduct any burning, Alberta Wildfire officials advise that you monitor conditions closely, ensure adequate control measures are in place and never leave a burn unattended.

For more information on how to conduct safe winter burning, see the Alberta government’s safe burning guidelines.

Wildfire season begins March 1

Alberta’s wildfire season begins March 1. At which time all burning within Alberta’s Forest Protection Area, except campfires, requires a fire permit.

Fire permits are free and available online or by calling the Rocky Mountain House Forestry Office at 403-845-8250. If you are planning a burn, follow your permit conditions and safe burning practices. Due to high demand, response times may be delayed. Officials appreciate your patience.

To help prevent spring wildfires, check previous burn sites to ensure all hot spots are fully extinguished. Please use caution in forested areas.