Rocky Mountain House Forest Area - April 17, 2025
The overall wildfire danger in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area is currently moderate due to warm, windy weather and is expected to rise as melting snow exposes dry grass and vegetation. In many areas, snow cover is already minimal, and strong winds are contributing to conditions that support fast-moving wildfires. Dry vegetation can ignite easily and spread flames quickly. While some precipitation is expected this weekend, it’s unlikely to be enough to significantly reduce the wildfire risk.
Spring wildfire conditions
Most spring wildfires in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area are human-caused. So far this year, 70 per cent have been the result of human activity. It is very important to be aware that dead and dry vegetation is highly flammable at this time of year, and it’s critical to use extreme caution when working or recreating outdoors. Wind gusts over 40 km/h are forecasted in parts of the area this weekend, increasing the risk. Remember, wildfire conditions can change rapidly, following periods of precipitation, fine fuels can quickly dry out and become hazardous later the same day.
Hazard reduction burns
As conditions allow, the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area plans to conduct hazard reduction burns in several locations across the region in the coming weeks.
One of these locations is the Town of Rocky Mountain House, where the Forest Area is working with the Town and Clearwater Regional Fire Rescue Services to plan hazard reduction burning within the Town boundary. Specific project details are available on the Town of Rocky Mountain House website. Updates, including burning dates and specific locations, will be shared once they are determined, based on fuel moisture and weather conditions.
Fire permits are required
From March 1 to October 31, all burning activities in the Forest Protection Area, excluding campfires, require a fire permit. Fire permits are free and can be requested online. You may also request your fire permit by calling the Rocky Mountain House forestry office at 403-845-8250.
Only burn debris under the conditions outlined on your permit. If the wind is gusting over 15 km/h or increases beyond the limit on your permit, immediately extinguish your fire.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2025 there have been 14 wildfires in the Rocky Mountain House Forest Area, which have burned 55.97 hectares. There is currently one active wildfire in the forest area, it is classified as under control. For the most up-to-date wildfire information, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
Published on April 17, 2025 8:49 am
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
Allanah McLean
403-418-5023
allanah.mclean@gov.ab.ca