While the snow has just disappeared in many areas, the risk of fire is increasing.
While it seems early, Wildfire Season in Alberta began on March 1.
“The key to prevention efforts is stopping wildfires before they start. It is essential that every Albertan understands their role in preventing wildfires, which is why we are increasing public awareness campaigns and promoting safe practices for outdoor activities, while also enforcing fire bans as necessary. Every small effort counts in preventing wildfires and protecting our communities and natural resources,” said Todd Lowen, Minister of Forestry and Parks.
Already, Kneehill County has issued a Fire Advisory.
Under this advisory, campfires, backyard fires and charcoal briquettes are allowed. New burn permits can be issued on a case-by-case basis. If conditions worsen, a Fire Restriction or a Fire Ban may be instated.
Drumheller also implemented a Fire Advisory on March 26.
“During a Fire Advisory, there are no restrictions on outside burning other than those specified within the Town of Drumheller Fire Bylaw and the Fireworks Bylaw,” it notes.
Clean wood or charcoal can be burned in conforming fire pits. Garbage, yard waste including leaves and grass clippings, or any other smudge fires are forbidden.
Special Areas has also issued a Fire advisory. It notes that town, villages, and provincial parks within Special Areas handles their own restrictions.
The Hand Hills Ecological Reserve is under a fire ban.
For more information and to see a breakdown of conditions throughout the province, go to:
www.albertafirebans.ca

Damien Kurek, Conservative MP-elect for Battle River—Crowfoot released the following statement on his decision to resign his seat to allow Conservative Party of Canada Leader, Pierre Poilievre, to run in a forthcoming by-election.

“It has been a tremendous honour to serve the good people of Battle River-Crowfoot as their Member of Parliament since 2019. Their support and commitment to the Conservative movement and our mission to bring back hope and prosperity to this country has been unmatched. Which is why, after much discussion with my wife Danielle, and I have decided to step aside for this Parliamentary session to allow our Conservative Party Leader to run here in a by-election.

“Pierre Poilievre just finished a remarkable national campaign that received the highest vote share since 1988. An unstoppable movement has grown under his leadership, and I know we need Pierre fighting in the House of Commons to hold the Liberal minority government to account. This is what's best for Canada, and is what's best for Battle River-Crowfoot.

“Although it will be hard to temporarily step away from this role, in this region I love and have always called home, the mandate given to me is one that clearly states that change is needed. Offering this seat to our Party Leader is an important step in that process. I started my political career talking about the need for government to be held to account and to ensure that rural Canada wasn't forgotten about, this is a key way to ensure that happens.

“The people of Battle River—Crowfoot will be represented well by Pierre for the remainder of this Parliamentary session, and I will keep working with our incredible local team to do everything I can to remain the strong voice for you as I support him in the process, and then run again here in Battle River—Crowfoot in the next general election. We need to build on the momentum that we have with that strong united vision that will restore the Canadian promise.