Peace River Forest Area

Peace River Forest Area - November 02, 2026

Wildfire update 

There are no active wildfires in the Peace River Forest Area. Wildfire season in Alberta officially concluded on October 31. 

As of January 1, 2026, there were 71 wildfires in the Peace River Forest Area, burning 70 hectares.

Although much of Alberta experienced reduced wildfire risk in 2026, crews remained active and some areas saw higher wildfire activity. Thanks to their hard work and preparation, supported by improved technology and response tools, Alberta successfully managed most wildfires before they grew. Overall, the province recorded about two-thirds of the five-year average number of wildfires, while the area burned was just 2% of the five-year average.

The Peace River Forestry team thanks everyone for their hard work and dedication this season.

Regular wildfire updates will resume March 1, 2027. 

Fall fire safety 

Though temperatures are cooler in the fall, vegetation becomes dry and highly flammable. Recreating on public land to hunt, burning brush on private property, or using off-highway vehicles all require caution to prevent wildfires on the landscape. 

This hunter made his small cooking fire on a graveled surface away from flammable vegetation. 

Cooking and warming campfires

• Use existing campfire rings, both official and unofficial
• Select a site away from dry grass, brush, leaves, logs, trees and overhanging branches, and peaty areas
• Use kindling and small branches for a smaller, more manageable fire
• Keep water nearby
• When leaving the site, ensure the fire is completely out

For more information, see campfires on public land. 

Safe burning practices

Any burning in the Forest Protection Area (FPA) does not require a permit from November 1, 2026 to February 28, 2027.

When planning to do winter burning:

• Listen to the weather forecast for snow conditions and wind predictions before starting fire
• Actively manage burn projects to reduce total burning time and smoke impacts
• Ensure good snow cover in the burn area (more than 15 cm)
• Plan to return to check winter burn projects in early spring to ensure no heat remains

See Safe burning for more details. 

Off-highway vehicles 

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