Calgary Forest Area - April 16, 2025
The wildfire danger across the Calgary Forest Area (CFA) remains LOW. Sufficient snow cover remains in much of the forested areas and mountain regions in the CFA, helping to suppress the overall wildfire danger. In open areas, the snow has melted and left large areas of dead and dry grass. At this time of year, these areas present an increased risk as they can ignite very easily and carry fast moving wildfires. Most areas received at least scattered precipitation over the weekend, and although a few warm days are anticipated this week, the forecast is calling for more rain or snow on the weekend.
Ready to respond
As more personnel come online for the 2025 wildfire season, additional facilities are also opening to support firefighting preparedness. One of the CFA's primary fire bases is now open. Wildland firefighters are now positioned at the Elbow base where they will live for the season, unless deployed to other areas. Both the CFA's airtanker bases are also open to support our aerial firefighting resources throughout the season.
Hazard reduction burning
As conditions allow, wildland firefighters from the CFA may engage in some hazard reduction burning in the coming weeks. Spring is an opportunity to safely and effectively conduct these projects and remove hazardous fuels from around structures and communities. Dead and dry vegetation, like cured grass, acts as fuel for fast moving wildfires so removing it now could help us later in the season. Specific project information will be shared as it comes available.
Wildfires in the CFA
With the lower wildfire danger, there are currently no active wildfires in the forest area.
Since January 1, the CFA has responded to 10 wildfires which have burned 26.34 hectares.
Fire permits required
A reminder that fire permits are required for any burning, except campfires, in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta. Fire permits are free and can be requested from the Calgary Forest Area main office by calling 403-297-8800 or requested online.
Published on April 16, 2025 1:39 pm
Wildfire season runs March 1 – October 31.
From March 1 to October 31, all burning activities in the Forest Protection Area, excluding campfires, require a fire permit.
Prevent wildfires by checking on winter burn sites. Winter burns can smoulder underground and often reignite in the spring. Extinguish a fire by soaking it, stirring it, and soaking it again.
Contact info
Anastasia Drummond
403-818-0938
anastasia.drummond@gov.ab.ca