Edson Forest Area

Edson Forest Area - April 17, 2026

Wildfire situation

Since January 1, there have been 7 wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 0.26 hectares (ha). For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size and statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

Additional helicopter activity near Hinton

The Hinton Training Centre is currently conducting their yearly seasonal firefighter training until the end of May. Residents will notice an increase in helicopter activity travelling between Entrance Fire Base and Tie Camp (RC Flyers) northwest and northeast of town. This training is for firefighters who will be supporting wildfire operations with Alberta Forestry.

Hazard reduction burning

A hazard reduction burn may be conducted by Alberta Forestry next week if conditions allow. The burn will be located at Tie Camp (RC Flyers), northeast of Hinton. Residents and highway traffic may see large columns of smoke. The burn would reduce the overall wildfire risk in the area by removing dead and dry grass and other flammable vegetation. Once the burn is complete, firefighters will patrol the area, extinguishing any remaining hot spots and return when required to ensure it's fully extinguished.

Join Alberta Forestry at a nearby event

Join Alberta Forestry to learn about wildfire prevention, operations and FireSmart recommendations. Stay tuned for more upcoming events.

• Edson Trade Show at the Rodeo Grounds on April 24 & 25
• Touch-a-Truck event in Edson on April 26
• Hinton's Wildfire Community Preparedness Day on May 2
• Grande Cache's Emergency Preparedness Day on May 5
• Jasper's Emergency Preparedness Day on May 6
• Cadomin's FireSmart Info and Work Bee event on May 16

Prevent spring wildfires

To prevent spring wildfires, we urge residents and industry to return to their burn piles and ensure they are fully extinguished. 

• Spread out the remaining material.
• Scan the ashes by looking, smelling and carefully feeling with a bare hand for any signs of smoke or heat from the pile.
• Soak hot spots and stir until they're completely extinguished.
• Check your burn site multiple times in the coming weeks to ensure it has not reignited.
• You can also watch our video on how to prevent spring wildfires.

If you’re going to burn it, get a permit

Since March 1, all burning in the Forest Protection Area of Alberta, with the exception of campfires, requires a fire permit. 

To request your free fire permit, contact the local forest area at (780) 723-8527 or you can request your permit online. We ask that you plan ahead, there may be delays for a forest officer to visit your site. For more information regarding fire permits, you can view our video on brush pile burning.

FireSmart your home, farm and acreage

Your actions today can minimize wildfire damage to your home and property tomorrow.

Flames aren’t the only threat. An estimated 90% of homes damaged or destroyed by wildfire are ignited by embers.  By taking proactive FireSmart measures around your house and yard, you can increase your properties’ resistance to wildfire.