High Level Forest Area - May 08, 2025

Wildfire situation

HWF025

This wildfire, which was about 23 km northwest of the community of John D'Or Prairie (part of the Little Red River Cree Nation) is now extinguished. 

HWF020  

This wildfire, which is located approximately 40 km southwest of the Town of High Level, is now under control. It remains approximately 55 ha in size and poses no threat to communities at this time. Firefighters, along with other resources, continue their efforts to extinguish this wildfire. 

In 2025, there have been 25 wildfires in the HLFA to date, burning more than 60 hectares (ha).

To view wildfires on a map and for live updates, download the AB Wildfire App or visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard. Learn more about wildfire status definitions used in Alberta.

Hazard-reduction burns

Forest officers, supported by firefighters and working closely with local authorities and fire departments, are conducting hazard-reduction burns (HRB) in the communities of Chateh and Tall Cree First Nation this week. These controlled HRB, which are conducted under close supervision, are aimed at reducing the amount of dry – and potentially very flammable – vegetation around communities and specific facilities and areas.

Firefighters from the HLFA burn a specific area, as part of a larger controlled HRB, in the Chateh area on May 7.

Firefighters initiate the burn of another section (within a designated area) during an HRB in the Chateh area, May 7. 

Fire permits required

As we are now in the official wildfire season (Mar. 1 to Oct. 31), 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 HLFA main office at 780-926-5407 or online.

Under the current fire advisory, existing fire permits will remain valid, but extension requests may not be granted. New fire permits will be issued on a case-by-case basis.

Spring conditions

As snow melts, and forest and other areas dry out, the risk of a wildfire igniting in dry grass and vegetation like twigs, small branches and brush, increases. Keep a close watch of your surroundings when working and recreating outdoors – and consider applying FireSmart techniques around your home and property.

Forest and Emergency Preparedness Weeks 

Alberta recognizes the importance of conservation and stewardship of our trees and forests throughout the year; however, during Forest Week (May 4-10), we focus on the importance of this large part of our environment and our world.

This week is also Emergency Preparedness Week, which highlights to importance of being prepared year-round for a range of possible situations that may require specific actions by Albertans, including emergency responders and agencies; community leaders, residents and workers; and other organizations. Be prepared, know your risks.