Edson Forest Area

Edson Forest Area - February 11, 2026

Wildfire situation

Since January 1, there have been 3 wildfires in the Edson Forest Area burning a total of 0.13 hectares (ha). The latest one was reported over the weekend, an abandoned campfire that was fortunately fully extinguished before escaping, possibly causing a wildfire. All fires, no matter their size, must be fully extinguished. Soak the fire, stir it and soak it again until the ashes are cool to the touch. 

For up-to-date information on wildfire locations, status, size and statistics, visit the Alberta Wildfire Status Dashboard.

This abandoned campfire was detected by a conservation officer this past weekend. Fortunately, the officer was able to extinguish this campfire before it became a serious wildfire. Please take extra care with campfires and/or burning as the warm temperatures and windy conditions can create ideal conditions for wildfires to start and grow. (February 2026)

Hazard reduction burning

A hazard reduction burn may be conducted by Alberta Forestry this week. The burn will be located at Bryan Creek, west of the community of Robb. 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.

Safe winter burning

If you are burning piles this winter, monitor your surroundings, stay aware of weather conditions, and never burn more than you can safely manage. Once your project is complete, return to your burn site often to ensure it isn't smouldering in the ground. Burns can stay active below the snow or into the ground for weeks or even months, they may need to be dug out and exposed.

Fire season is only a month away. All existing burns will need to be extinguished by February 28 and any new burns will require a permit. You will require a fire permit for any burning in the Forest Protection Area (FPA), with the exception of a campfire, from March 1 to October 31. 

Fire permits are no longer required, but following safe winter burning practices is always important. Here are some suggestions for safe burning: If

• At least 15 cm of snow on the ground before taking on a burning project.
• Wind speeds of less than 15 km/h will lessen the chances of embers flying into nearby dry vegetation
• Avoid burning when an inversion is forecasted. Inversions happen when cold air is trapped below a layer of warm air. It causes smoke to stay close to the ground, impacting visibility and possibly causing smoke-related health concerns.
• You can also watch how to prevent spring wildfires.

To assist the Edson Forest Area, please let us know if you plan any large scale winter burning. Reporting large scale burning can help prevent dispatching our firefighters to non-emergency fires. Contact the radio room line directly 780-723-8507 (leave a message if closed).

FireSmart Open Houses

Join Alberta Forestry and Yellowhead County Fire Department to learn how you can protect your home and property from wildfire. Enter for your chance to win a home sprinkler kit and a portable fire pit. Stay tuned for more upcoming events.

Drop in anytime between 4-7 p.m. 

• Evansburg Fire Station - February 17
• Fulham Hall - February 19
• Robb Hall - March 3
• Overlander Lodge - March 5