Re-entry plan begins today –
The Kenow Fire remains active and is still classified as out of control, but Parks Canada is planning a phased re-entry to the Waterton townsite on Tuesday for residents, leaseholders, and business owners.
Only those who have been contacted by Parks Canada and fall under these three groups will be allowed entry into the park.
“We thank you for your ongoing patience and we will let you know when access to the Waterton townsite will be permitted for the general public,” officials said in a news release Monday afternoon.
“On behalf of all the people of Alberta, the communities, the town of Waterton and the MD of Pincher Creek, Cardston County, and the Blood Tribe have all been at the front of mind for all Albertans,” said Premier Rachel Notley, speaking in Lethbridge Monday.
“Our hearts go out to all of those families whose homes and livelihoods have been threatened or destroyed by this fire. Let me also offer up, on behalf of all Albertans, our sincere gratitude to all those first responders who have been working so hard to stop the fire and to ensure no further damage is done. The government of Alberta will continue to work in collaboration with our partners to make sure we get this fire under control.”
As of Monday, the wildfire covered an area of approximately 38,100 hectares. Fire activity is predominantly on the fire perimeter and at localized hotspots. The evacuation order remains in effect and the park is closed to all incoming traffic except emergency vehicles and authorized personnel — and the aforemention groups for Tuesday.
The Castle Branch Fire has seen minimal activity over the past few days, officials said Monday. The fire is now estimated to be 221 hectares in size, which is due to more accurate mapping and measurement rather than a change in the fire’s size. Aircraft is being used for both assessment and suppression, while crews continue to be deployed on the ground as well.
Municipal District of Pincher Creek officials said Monday that the mandatory evacuation order for South of Oil Basin Road to the Waterton Park boundary has been rescinded, that Highway 6 is now open, and that the local state of emergency for the entire MD will expire Tuesday morning.
Re-entry information packages are available for residents returning to their homes. They are available at the Administration Building and on the MD’s website.
Parks Canada is also anticipating increased temperatures, drier conditions and more wind for early this week. Officials say fire behaviour and activity has the potential to increase with these conditions.