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As Alberta transitions into wildfire season, the spectre of devastation looms large, particularly for communities like Canmore and Hinton, which are taking pre-emptive steps to safeguard their residents and natural landscapes. Following the catastrophic Jasper wildfires of 2024, which displaced 25,000 people and razed a significant portion of the town, these mountain communities are determined to avoid a similar fate.
Canmore’s Ambitious Fireguard Initiative
In response to the alarming threat of wildfires, Canmore is actively implementing a multi-phase project aimed at constructing fireguards around the town. Mayor Sean Krausert emphasised the urgency of these measures, noting the stark reminder of Jasper’s destruction. “It was just a reminder of how devastating wildfire is, and it certainly was one of the motivators for us in the work we’re doing,” he stated.
The fireguards involve clearing strips of land to deprive wildfires of their fuel. The first phase has already been completed on the sun-drenched south-facing slopes of surrounding mountains, while a second fireguard is in progress. This latest initiative has seen significant tree removal on a ridge overlooking Canmore, where sizeable debris piles now await controlled burning later this winter. A planned third project will extend a 150-metre-wide firebreak for 15 kilometres south down the valley.
Community Preparedness and Individual Responsibility
The anxiety surrounding wildfire risks is palpable among residents. Krausert acknowledged that living in a tree-rich valley inevitably brings a sense of unease. “I don’t think you can live in a valley full of trees and be comfortable given the wildfires in the last number of years,” he remarked.
In addition to the fireguard projects, Canmore has launched the FireSmart programme, actively engaging thirteen neighbourhoods in initiatives designed to fortify homes against potential fire threats. Simon Bagshaw, the town’s FireSmart coordinator, highlighted the critical role of small actions: “A big part of the problem is actually the ember showers that travel two kilometres ahead of the wildfire,” he explained. These embers can easily ignite materials like woodpiles and dry mulch, making preventive measures vital.
Hinton’s Strategic Firebreak Development
An hour’s drive east of Jasper, Hinton is also on high alert, constructing a five-kilometre firebreak around its community following the recent Jasper fires and another incident in Edson that led to evacuations. Mayor Brian Laberge described the interconnected nature of these communities, stating, “We (Jasper, Hinton, and Edson) are kind of the three sisters — and Hinton is the one in the middle that hasn’t been hit by fire.”
However, the process of creating firebreaks is not without challenges. Many landowners are understandably upset about the removal of cherished trees. Laberge noted, “Landowners are going, ‘What the heck, I love my trees,’” highlighting the emotional toll of necessary but difficult decisions.
The Growing Threat of Wildfires
Wildfire expert Jed Kaplan from the University of Calgary has warned that climate change is exacerbating the risk of wildfires, with hotter summers and extended dry periods becoming the norm. “The mountain towns between Calgary and Vancouver are at significant risk, and concrete interventions must be made,” Kaplan advised, stressing the importance of completing fire prevention measures before a major wildfire strikes.
Alberta’s Forestry Minister, Todd Loewen, reported that crews have already responded to 27 new wildfires this year. He urged greater public awareness, noting that an estimated 60 per cent of wildfires are sparked by human activity, with the remainder caused by lightning. “Even small changes in behaviour can make a big difference,” Loewen insisted.
Why it Matters
As Alberta braces for the wildfire season, the proactive measures undertaken by communities like Canmore and Hinton serve as a model for resilience in the face of climate change. By investing in fireguard infrastructure and promoting individual responsibility through programmes like FireSmart, these towns not only protect their residents but also preserve the natural beauty of their surroundings. Their efforts highlight an essential truth: when communities unite to tackle environmental challenges, they can significantly mitigate risks and safeguard their future.
