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High wildfire danger
The fire danger level remains high throughout the entire High Level Forest Area (HLFA). This means that grasses, leaves and other vegetation are dry in communities and parts of the forest area, which could support a fast-moving wildfire. Please use caution if you are spending time or working outside.
Wildfire situation
HWF020, which was located approximately 40 km southwest of the Town of High Level, is now extinguished.
In 2025, there have been 27 wildfires in the HLFA to date, burning 61 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.
Fire permits required
During 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 online or from the High Level Forest Area main office at 780-926-5407.
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.
Fire advisory
A fire advisory is in effect for the High Level Forest Area.
Under this 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.
- The burning of heavy fuels, including machine-piled brush piles and windrows is restricted.
- The fire advisory will remain in effect until conditions improve.
To learn more, visit Alberta Fire Bans.
Hazard-reduction burns
Forest officers, supported by firefighters and working closely with local authorities and fire departments, conducted hazard-reduction burns in the communities of Chateh and Tall Cree First Nation in early May. These controlled burns, 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.
HLFA firefighters supervise a small section during a hazard-reduction burn in the Chateh area in early May.
Spring conditions
As 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.
Community Outreach
The High Level Forest Area (HLFA) participates in many community events throughout the year, recently attending trade shows in La Crete and High Level. Our staff also reaches out to schools and other organizations in the area, providing interactive presentations for all ages.
The HLFA will be supporting the Northern Lights Forest Education Society's social studies field trip at Machesis Lake on May 15. Please let us know if we can support your organization's event or activity with information about forestry management and wildfire prevention. We also offer tours of the HLFA Fire Centre, including the airtanker base, to community groups.
Forest Officer Morgan Sawicki (left) and Area Manager Stephanie Grocholski speak with an area resident about wildfire prevention and community updates at the High Level & District Trade Show on May 2.
Contact info
Mark Giles
780-285-4490
[email protected]
Published on May 14, 2025 10:08 am