Whitecourt Forest Area - June 16, 2026

Wildfire situation 

Since January 1, 2026 there have been 24 wildfires in the Whitecourt Forest Area, burning approximately 133 hectares (ha). For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size, statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

Off-highway vehicle safety 

You can reduce the risk of your vehicle causing a wildfire by following these simple steps.

• Before you ride, clean out hot spots and remove debris from your machine.
• After riding through muskeg or tall grass, stop and remove any build-up from your machine.
• Carry firefighting equipment such as a small shovel, collapsible pail or fire extinguisher.
• Wash your OHV and keep it clean – do not wash in streams and creeks.
• Make sure your muffler and spark arrestor are working properly.
• Stop frequently. Take the time to knock debris from your machine’s hot spots. If the debris is smouldering, soak it, stir it, and soak it again to make sure it is extinguished.

For more information, see Off-highway vehicles: Wildfire prevention tips.

Join Alberta Forestry at a nearby event 

Join Alberta Forestry to learn about wildfire prevention, operations and FireSmart recommendations. 

• Summer Connections Park Party - Join us at Blueberry Park on June 17
• Party in the Park - Join us at Festival Park in Whitecourt on June 19 & 20
• Touch a Truck event - Visit us at the Fresh Community Night Market on June 25 

Get your free fire 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. 

Contact info

Colby Lachance
780-286-4332
[email protected]