On February 29th, the Building Multi-Year Drought Resiliency Workshop was hosted by four southern Watershed Planning and Advisory Councils (WPACs): Oldman Watershed Council, South East Alberta Watershed Alliance, Milk River Watershed Council Canada, and Bow River Basin Council.
The fifth instalment in our "Understanding Drought" blog series is now live. In it, we look beneath the surface and unearth information about groundwater.
Blog #4 in our *Understanding Drought** blog series about the current drought in Alberta. Learn about how Alberta’s water-using sectors have made improvements to water conservation, efficiency, and productivity.
In blog #3 in our “Understanding Drought” series, we look at water management, sharing, and licensing in Alberta.
The Oldman Watershed Council hopes to unite municipalities and organizations to protect the local water supply.
On Monday, Lethbridge City Council agreed to add their name to a Southern Alberta Water Charter proposed by the OWC. Signing the charter pledges action and commitment to the betterment of the health of the Oldman watershed.
New guest blogpost by Quentin Stevick! Now is your chance to have a say in how the AB gov't will invest in energy efficiency programs. Energy Efficiency Alberta is a new agency that will promote and support energy efficiency and energy systems for homes, businesses and communities. Quentin Stevick tells his thoughts on energy efficiency, the current system and what should change from a rural perspective that will benefit all Albertans...
Imagine knowing that it was your fault, that something you thought was insignificant cost someone their home, their life or the life of a loved one. When venturing out into the backcountry this spring, remember that more than half of all wildfires in Canada are human caused and do your part to insure that human isn’t you.
By now, we’ve all seen the horrible devastation caused by forest fires in the community of Fort McMurray and area. Extremely dry conditions have set the stage for similar blazes across the province, leading the Government of Alberta to implement a province-wide fire ban. This ban is not to be taken lightly, as even a small oversight can escalate into tragedy.
Right now valuable resources are needed to deal with the situation in the Fort McMurray area and new fire outbreaks would put a significant strain on everyone involved. In this difficult time, we must all do our part to reduce the risk of forest fires in every possible situation.
The Provincial Government issued a province-wide fire ban as of May 5th. Under this ban, the following are
PROHIBITED:
Use of ALL wood, briquette and propane or natural gas fires
Patio heaters, turkey fryers and Tiki torches
PERMITTED:
Liquid or gas fueled stoves and BBQs that meet the CSA or UL standards
Liquid or gas fueled lanterns (enclosed flame) that meet CSA or UL standards
While some camping appliances are still permitted, it is important to use caution during any activity that may increase the risk of wildfires.
All Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) and All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV) users are encouraged to practice extreme caution when heading out this season as the fire hazard in our watershed is already high. Remember that if you are found responsible for the start of a wildfire you may be charged under the Forest and Prairie Protection Act and be held responsible for the cost of extinguishing the fire.
Here are some tips from the Alberta Government to prevent starting a wildfire while enjoying the backcountry.
Before you ride, ensure that there is no debris build up
Always carry a small fire extinguisher and collapsible shovel to put out small fires
Wash your OHV regularly at a commercial car-wash or your home
Remember that you are required to have a spark arrester on your OHV
Alberta Fire Bans by phone: 1-866-394-3473
Alberta Wildfire App for Android and IPhone
If you spot a wildfire or see an out-of-control fire call 310-FIRE (toll-free) anywhere in Alberta.
Thank you to the Crowsnest Pass Quad Squad, Southern Alberta Off Road and many others who are encouraging their members to recreate responsibility or stay home during this fire season to reduce the risks.
Our Engaging Recreationists project is ramping up! Last year, we had 2 Outreach Assistants in the backcountry, piloting our outreach project. This year, we are doubling that capacity and have hired the first of 4 Outreach Assistants (OAs) who will be helping with restoration work and education in the backcountry. Led by Education Manager Sofie Forsstrom, the project is set to take off soon and we will announce the other OAs as they come aboard ...
