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Alberta.ca Account
Wildfire update

Grande Prairie Forest Area - May 23, 2025

Report a wildfire: 
310-FIRE (3473)

Alberta Wildfire application:

High wildfire danger

The fire danger remains high in the Grande Prairie Forest Area. Higher temperatures are expected this weekend, which will increase the wildfire risk. Current conditions make it easy for wildfires to start and spread quickly.

Wildfire situation

GWF028 

This wildfire was detected on May 22 and is currently classified as out of control. It is located about 30 km east of Bonanza and 8 km northwest of Moonshine Lake Provincial Park, with an estimated size of 105 hectares. Firefighters, helicopters, and heavy equipment are working to contain it. At this time, there is no threat to communities or infrastructure. This wildfire was quickly detected by a lookout observer, which enabled crews, aircraft and heavy equipment to respond rapidly. Thanks to this swift response, the initial fire growth has significantly slowed.

A Electra airtanker flies low over a forest, releasing a large plume of red fire retardant. The sky is mostly clear with scattered clouds, with a dense tree line below consists of tall evergreen and deciduous trees. An Electra airtanker drops fire retardant over a forested area to help slow the spread of wildfire GWF028 in the Grande Prairie Forest Area.

Since January 1, there have been 29 wildfires in the Grande Prairie Forest Area, burning a total of 114 hectares.

Fire restriction

A fire restriction is in effect for the Grande Prairie Forest Area. Under this restriction, all outdoor wood fires are banned on public lands. 

Prohibited: 

  • Outdoor wood fires on public lands including backcountry and random camping areas
  • Any burning, other than a campfire on private land
  • Fireworks and exploding targets 

Allowed: 

  • Safe wood campfires on private land including provincial campgrounds with a designated fire ring
  • Backyard firepits
  • Propane fire pits and natural gas-powered appliances
  • Indoor wood fires
  • Open flame oil devices

The fire restriction will remain in effect until conditions improve. 

For details and updates, visit Alberta Fire Bans.

Farming safely during fire season 

Spring work is here, and while this time of year can sometimes be cold, rainy, or snowy, the risk of agricultural wildfires remains present. Dry vegetation and crop residue is highly flammable, so extra precautions must be taken to prevent fires on the farm. 

What can be done: 

  • Keep machinery clean. Clear out any debris around hot spots and pinch points.
  • Maintain electrical components and equipment.
  • Grease mobile components of equipment according to manufacturer's recommendations.
  • Regularly clean air filters.
  • Regularly check coolant and oil levels.
  • Keep a full, up to date ABC fire extinguisher in or near the cab and know how to use it.

Read the FireSmart Farm and Acreage Guide to learn more about farm fire safety.

Contact info

Kassey Zatko
780-538-5327
[email protected]

Published on May 23, 2025 2:30 pm