With summer holidays over, children back in school and potentially fewer campers headed out west, the wildfire danger in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area has been lowered to moderate.

That’s according to Alberta Wildfire, which issued a high rating on Aug. 21.

Despite warmer temperatures, officials say vegetation in many areas continues to hold moisture, making conditions less favourable for wildfire ignition.

However, this does not mean there is no wildfire risk. Alberta Wildfire says some grasses and other vegetation are beginning to dry, and conditions can vary across the forest area. Anyone spending time in the forest area is reminded to recreate responsibly and do their part to reduce human-caused wildfires.

No fire bans

With the drop in wildfire danger, the West Country remains free of fire bans. There are currently no restrictions in Clearwater County, the town of Rocky Mountain House or the Rocky Mountain House Forest Protection Area.

Check current conditions on the Alberta Fire Bans website.

Campfire safety

As the days grow shorter and nights become cooler, campfires remain an important part of backcountry trips.

Officials say some areas may be at a higher risk, including portions of the south and west boundaries of the forest area, where grasses, leaves and other vegetation are beginning to cure and dry as they transition into dormancy, increasing the potential for wildfire.

Whether you are camping, hunting or enjoying a day trip, residents are urged to always have the tools and water needed to fully extinguish your campfire.

Before leaving, soak the fire, stir the ashes and soak it again until everything is cool to the touch. Never leave a campfire unattended.

Forest health and pests

The recent infestation of the forest tent caterpillar over the summer has left many landowners concerned about the health of their trees. For those wondering what might be affecting their trees, an online diagnostic tool is available.

The Alberta Forest Pest Damage Diagnostic System provides Albertans with an expansive database detailing host trees, symptoms, biology, impact, terms and images relating to forest pests in Alberta.

Fire permits are required

From March 1 to October 31, a fire permit is required for all burning activities in the Forest Protection Area (FPA), excluding campfires.

The use of fireworks and exploding targets within the FPA is prohibited year-round without a permit. Permits are free and can be requested online or by calling the Rocky Mountain House forestry office at 403-845-8250.

Wildfire situation

There are currently no active wildfires in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area. Since Jan. 1, 2026, officials say the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area has responded to 63 wildfires, which have burned over 1,200 hectares.

For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size and statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard. By adjusting settings and layers on this site, you can also view forest area boundaries, active fire advisories, restrictions and bans, wildfire danger ratings and much more.