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Wildfire update

Lac La Biche Forest Area - May 22, 2025

Moderate wildfire danger

The wildfire danger is now moderate in the Lac La Biche Forest Area. 

As a result, the fire ban has been modified to a fire restriction. The fire advisory remains in effect. 

Recent rainfall has provided valuable moisture, helping vegetation green up and encouraging spring growth. These conditions have temporarily lowered the wildfire danger. Periods of rain are still expected in parts of the area. However, this will be followed by a return to higher temperatures this weekend, which will increase the wildfire danger.

Wildfires can still start in damp and cool conditions. Continue to use caution when spending time in the forest.

Wildfire situation 

Since January 1, 2025, there have been 86 wildfires in the Lac La Biche Forest Area, burning a total of 661 hectares. 

There are currently four active wildfires burning in the forest area. All of these fires are under control, and there are no threats to communities or structures at this time.

Visit the wildfire status dashboard for information on active wildfires. 

Mutual aid wildfire

Alberta Wildfire is assisting with wildfire LCU002, located in the Redwater Recreation Area. 

A mutual aid wildfire is a wildfire that starts outside of the Forest Protection Area and assistance is being provided by Alberta Wildfire to the lead agency. These wildfires typically start in a municipal district but become large enough that municipal firefighters may require additional resources to help support it.

Fire restriction

A fire restriction is now in effect for most of the Lac La Biche 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
  • Barbecue charcoal briquettes
  • Indoor wood fires
  • Open flame oil devices 

For more details, please visit Alberta Fire Bans.

Fire advisory

A fire advisory remains in effect for the southeast portion of the Lac La Biche Forest Area, including parts of the Municipal District of Bonnyville located within the Forest Protection Area boundaries.

Under this advisory:

  • Fire permit requests will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
  • Safe campfires are allowed.

For more details, including boundaries, please visit Alberta Fire Bans.

Fire prevention reminders

In the Lac La Biche Forest Area, nearly 90% of the 86 wildfires this season have been caused by human activity. This means most of them could have been prevented.

Simple precautions can make a big difference. Follow all fire bans and restrictions, use approved fire pits and keep fires small and manageable. Never leave a fire unattended, and always make sure it’s fully out before you leave, soak it, stir it, and soak it again. Every small action counts when it comes to preventing wildfires.

Contact info

Allanah McLean
403-418-5023
[email protected]

Published on May 22, 2025 2:24 pm