Whitecourt receives provincial support to construct a community fireguard

The Town of Whitecourt, with support from Alberta Forestry and Parks, has been approved for funding from the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta Community Fireguard Program. The $1,534,180 in funding will be used to construct a community fireguard with access points, approximately 4.5 kilometres long and 100 metres wide, on the eastern boundary of town.

The Community Fireguard Program is designed to help protect communities by clearing areas near or surrounding a community.  The fireguard, a strategically constructed feature where trees, brush and fuel sources are removed, will break the path of wildfire that could potentially move towards property, infrastructure, and other values at risk.

Minister of Alberta Forestry and Parks Todd Loewen stated, “Preparation is vital to mitigating the impacts of wildfires. Through initiatives like the Community Fireguard Program and FireSmart, our government is committed to ensuring that communities like Whitecourt are well-equipped to face these challenges head-on.”

Whitecourt, in consultation with community stakeholders, recently completed a Community Fireguard Plan that involved planning and mapping the fireguard location.  The project area extends from Ecole St. Joseph School in the north, to Highway 43 in the south.  This span incorporates diverse terrain, including wetlands, mixed wood forests, and is located in close proximity to critical infrastructure, including schools, power substations, and wastewater treatment facilities.  

“As a community surrounded by forests, fire hazard reduction and protection is a priority for the ongoing safety and security of our community.  For years, Whitecourt has prioritized FireSmart practices, and the construction of an internal fireguard will further protect our community from wildfire threats,” added Whitecourt Mayor Tom Pickard.

Whitecourt will be hosting an information session on the project in early December 2024 to educate the community on the benefits of this project and how it will help to lower the risk of wildfire. Further details will be posted on www.whitecourt.ca and social media pages once the date is confirmed.