The wildfire danger is now moderate. Despite warmer temperatures, vegetation in many areas continues to hold moisture, making conditions less favourable for wildfire ignition. However, this does not mean there is no wildfire risk. Some grasses and other vegetation are beginning to dry, and conditions can vary across the forest area. Please use caution when spending time outdoors.
Wildfire situation
Since January 1, 2026 there have been 28 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area, burning approximately 134 hectares (ha). For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size and statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.
Harvesting operations
To operate safely in the forest area we recommend:
- Maintaining your equipment by continuously inspecting for any wear and tear
- Ensuring machine parts are well lubricated to reduce sparking potential
- Checking fluid levels on equipment like oil, coolant and other fluids to avoid overheating the engine components
- Stopping often to cool machines down during hot days
- Acknowledging that hay bales can spontaneously combust under hot and dry conditions. To avoid accidently starting a wildfire consider baling outside the peak burning hours of (3 to 7 pm) as this is when wildfires are more likely to occur and spread quickly
- Always carry firefighting equipment with you like a fire extinguisher, shovel and water vessel
Hunting season
If you're heading out into the forest to hunt and you're having a campfire, keep your campfires small, safe and always attended. Before leaving the site or going to bed, ensure your campfire is completely extinguished. Soak the fire with water, stir the ashes and soak it again to ensure it’s out. The fire is fully extinguished when you can no longer feel any heat from the ashes.
If you're going to burn it, get a permit
A fire permit is required for any burning within the Forest Protection Area (FPA), except for campfires. Permits are required during wildfire season, from March 1 to October 31. Fire permits are free and can be requested online or by calling 780-778-7166. As a reminder, if the wind is gusting over 15 km/h or increases beyond the limit on your permit, immediately extinguish your fire.
FireSmart
Join the Building for Wildfire Resilience webinar series presented by FireSmart Alberta to learn more about mitigation measures your community can take to protect homes and property from wildfire.
Join Forestry at a nearby event
- Join us at Blue Ridge Family Fun Day on September 12.
Contact info
Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]
Published on August 31, 2026 9:58 am