Parks Canada is planning to carry out prescribed fires in Waterton Lakes National Park this spring, if conditions permit. In preparation for this, fire guards will be created with small- scale burning of grass along snowdrifts as early as mid-February.
Prescribed fires are carried out only when a set of predetermined conditions relating to weather, terrain, fire behaviour, fire control and smoke management is fully met. Burning will only occur in conditions that allow the fire to be controlled and contained within identified boundaries, and which minimize the amount and duration of smoke affecting neighbouring lands. Parks Canada works closely with its neighbours to ensure that they are aware of prescribed fire plans for Waterton, and that the plans are respectful of regional concerns.
The purpose of prescribed fires is to restore native prairie by reducing aspen and evergreen tree expansion onto grasslands. Historic photographs show that fire suppression has allowed trees to encroach on park grasslands, with as much as 30% of grasslands lost over the last 100 years. Parts of these areas were burned previously in 2006 and 2008.
Parks Canada’s goal for fire management in national parks is to restore and maintain historical fire frequency, while at the same time protecting the public and facilities from wildfires.
Restoring fire is important to the health of the ecosystem, including the wildlife it supports.
Special arrangements will be available for media to safely view fire actions and interview fire staff. Contact Doreen McGillis to make arrangements and for updates on the status of the planned fire.
This prescribed fire may be cancelled on short notice if there is a change in the weather conditions required for it to proceed.
For more information contact
Doreen McGillis
External Relations Manager
Waterton Lakes Field Unit
Parks Canada
403-859-5114 cell: 403-627-8530
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