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Alberta enters wildfire season

Alberta officially entered wildfire season Tuesday.
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Alberta officially entered wildfire season Tuesday.

In a press release, the province explained that firefighters and equipment have been deployed across the province in preparation for the season, which starts on March 1 and extends to Oct. 31.

“Our priority is keeping Albertans and our communities safe,” said Nate Horner, Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Economic Development.

“We continue to explore new technology and innovative wildland firefighting programs to evaluate what we need in Alberta’s wildfire management tool kit. We’re ready for whatever this summer throws at us.”

The province noted in the release that nearly all spring wildfires are human-caused and risk is at its highest in the spring when fuels like trees and grass can be extremely dry and flammable after the snow has melted.

Fire permits are free and are required during wildfire season for activities like residential, industrial or agricultural debris burning within the Forest Protection Area (FPA). Those living or operating a business within the FPA can call their local forest area office for a fire permit. Those outside the FPA can contact their local municipality to ask about fire permit requirements.