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As Alberta transitions into wildfire season, communities like Canmore and Hinton are taking proactive measures to safeguard against the devastating threat of wildfires. With memories of the catastrophic Jasper fires in 2024 still fresh, local leaders are implementing extensive fire prevention strategies aimed at protecting both residents and the surrounding natural landscapes.
A Reminder of Past Devastation
The harrowing experience of Jasper, where a significant portion of the town was engulfed by flames, serves as a stark warning for nearby communities. Mayor Sean Krausert of Canmore expressed the deep concern shared by residents, noting, “Being a community, very much like ours… a tourist destination surrounded by trees… it could happen to you.” This sentiment underlines the urgency of preparedness as Canmore embarks on a comprehensive project to establish firebreaks around the town.
Construction of Fireguards
In a bid to mitigate wildfire risks, Canmore has initiated a multi-phase project to create a series of fireguards. These firebreaks involve clearing strips of land of trees and other combustible materials, effectively starving any advancing fires of fuel. Currently, one phase is complete on the southern slopes, while work is progressing on a second firebreak. This phase has seen the removal of trees, leaving behind piles of debris, which are slated for controlled burns next winter. A future project aims to extend a 150-metre-wide fireguard 15 kilometres south down the valley.
Krausert acknowledged the anxiety that comes with living in a fire-prone area, stating, “I think all of us who live in the valley as we go through wildfire season have some low-grade anxiety.” This collective apprehension is fuelled by the increasing frequency and severity of wildfires in recent years.
Community Engagement and FireSmart Initiatives
Canmore’s commitment to wildfire preparedness extends beyond physical barriers. The town has launched the FireSmart programme, which actively involves local homeowners in preventative measures. The initiative encourages residents to clear pine needles from gutters and reduce flammable debris around their properties. Simon Bagshaw, the FireSmart coordinator, highlighted the critical role of ember showers, which can travel considerable distances ahead of a wildfire, igniting fires in seemingly safe areas.
“A big part of the problem is actually the ember showers that travel two kilometres ahead of the wildfire,” Bagshaw explained, emphasising the need for community vigilance in maintaining fire-safe properties.
Hinton’s Firebreak Initiatives
In Hinton, located an hour east of Jasper, similar efforts are underway. The town is constructing a five-kilometre firebreak in response to past fires, including the 2023 incident in nearby Edson. Mayor Brian Laberge noted the interconnectedness 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 establishing firebreaks is not without controversy. Laberge acknowledged the emotional difficulty for landowners who face the loss of cherished trees, remarking, “Landowners are going, ‘What the heck, I love my trees?’” This highlights the challenge of balancing environmental concerns with the need for safety.
Climate Change and the Increased Wildfire Risk
Wildfire expert Jed Kaplan from the University of Calgary pointed to climate change as a significant factor in the increasing wildfire risk. “Hotter summers, longer dry periods and warm winters due to climate change are making wildfires a constant risk,” he explained. He urged that concrete interventions must be implemented swiftly to enhance fire resilience in the region.
Alberta’s Forestry Minister Todd Loewen has reported that crews have already responded to 27 new wildfires this year alone. He emphasised the need for public awareness, noting that approximately 60 per cent of wildfires are caused by human activity, with the remaining sparked by natural occurrences. “Even small changes in behaviour can make a big difference,” Loewen stated.
Why it Matters
The proactive measures being implemented by Canmore and Hinton underscore a vital shift towards community resilience in the face of escalating wildfire threats. As climate change intensifies the frequency and severity of wildfires, these towns are not only protecting their residents but also setting a precedent for other communities facing similar risks. The combined efforts of local governments, residents, and experts highlight the importance of preparedness, awareness, and community action in safeguarding both lives and the environment.
