**
As Alberta transitions into wildfire season, communities nestled in the Rocky Mountains are taking proactive measures to safeguard themselves from the devastation that these blazes can cause. Canmore and Hinton, both of which have experienced the repercussions of wildfires in the past, are implementing extensive fire prevention projects, driven by the memories of previous disasters that left their marks on local residents.
Learning from the Past
The spectre of wildfire looms large over Canmore, especially after the catastrophic events that unfolded in Jasper in 2024, when flames destroyed a third of the town’s infrastructure, forcing 25,000 people to evacuate in the dead of night. Mayor Sean Krausert of Canmore articulated the community’s concerns, stating, “Being a community, very much like ours… a tourist destination surrounded by trees… it could happen to you.” This harrowing experience has spurred both towns into action, with a renewed focus on fire prevention.
To combat the wildfire threat, Canmore is currently engaged in a multi-phase initiative aimed at constructing a fireguard around the town. This crucial barrier involves clearing vegetation to create a defensible space that can inhibit the spread of flames. The first phase has already been completed on the sun-soaked slopes that are particularly prone to dryness. A second phase is underway, with debris from tree removal accumulating in sizeable piles that are slated for burning in the winter months. Plans for a third fireguard project outline a substantial 150-metre wide strip that will extend 15 kilometres down the valley.
Community Initiatives and FireSmart Programmes
In addition to fireguard construction, Canmore is actively promoting the FireSmart programme, which encourages residents to take personal responsibility for fire safety. This initiative encompasses practical steps for homeowners, such as removing pine needles from gutters and clearing debris from roofs. Simon Bagshaw, Canmore’s FireSmart coordinator, emphasised the danger posed by ember showers that can travel as far as two kilometres ahead of a wildfire, igniting flammable materials in their path. “They land on woodpiles, they land on conifer trees and even mulch that people have, and those are the things that can ignite,” he explained.
In Hinton, situated an hour’s drive east of Jasper, a similar proactive stance is being adopted. The town is building a five-kilometre firebreak in response to the Jasper fire and a subsequent blaze in Edson in 2023, which resulted in evacuations. Mayor Brian Laberge remarked on the interconnected nature of these communities, referring to them as the “three sisters,” with Hinton being the only town yet to face a wildfire directly. The challenge, however, lies in the emotional impact of removing beloved trees, a point Laberge acknowledged as he faced resistance from landowners who cherish their green spaces.
The Role of Climate in Wildfire Risks
Wildfire expert Jed Kaplan from the University of Calgary highlighted the increasing risks posed by climate change, noting that hotter summers and prolonged dry spells are contributing to a landscape where wildfires thrive. He stated, “Between Calgary and Vancouver, those are the areas where I do think there are some concrete interventions that can be made.” Kaplan expressed hope that the fire prevention measures being implemented will be completed before a significant wildfire event occurs.
Alberta’s Forestry Minister Todd Loewen has reported that crews have already responded to 27 new wildfires this year, underscoring the urgency of the situation. He emphasised that a crucial element in wildfire prevention lies in public awareness, noting that approximately 60 per cent of wildfires are ignited by human activities, while the remainder are caused by lightning strikes. “Even small changes in behaviour can make a big difference,” Loewen remarked.
Why it Matters
As climate change continues to exacerbate wildfire risks across Alberta, the initiatives undertaken by Canmore and Hinton serve as vital examples of community resilience and preparedness. By fostering a culture of fire safety and implementing strategic fire prevention measures, these towns not only protect their own citizens but also set a precedent for other communities facing similar threats. The balance between environmental stewardship and the need for infrastructure development in fire-prone areas is critical, as these regions strive to mitigate future risks while preserving their natural landscapes.
