Prescribed burns in JNP may affect parts of Yellowhead County

Parks Canada advises that smoke from two prescribed burns taking place in Jasper National Park this fall will likely be visible in the Hinton and Brule areas.

According to Parks Canada, they will be using prescribed fire in two areas of Jasper National Park this fall to reduce the danger of wildfire while restoring some of our landscape and providing some mitigation from mountain pine beetle.

Operations will begin when forest and weather conditions permit and take place when the objectives of the prescribed fire can be met safely. The public will be advised when the decision has been made to proceed. There is no need to call 911 or other emergency services to report smoke.

We especially want to make sure Brule residents are made aware of prescribed fires and potential smoke concerns. These prescribed burns will be within the National Park but will likely be visible outside the boundaries. Should you suspect a fire not related to the prescribed burns, please call 911 immediately.

Parks Canada advises that smoke will be visible in the Hinton and Brule areas and could drift downwind up to 100 km away including the Highway 16 corridor and valley bottoms.

Parks Canada is also suggesting that people with respiratory ailments contact their local health professional for advice specific to their condition if they have questions. Other general health-related inquiries can be directed to Health Link Alberta at 1-866-408-LINK. Traffic may be impacted on Highway 16. Updates will be posted at AB511. Information on trail and other closures will be available at www.pc.gc.ca/jasper or by calling 780-852-0221 or by emailing jnpfireinfo@pc.gc. ca.