Fire protection and restoration projects

Prescribed fire operations will only be conducted when predetermined weather and site conditions are met.

Prescribed fires help to restore healthy forests and grasslands and enhance habitat for wildlife. They also help reduce the risk of wildfire to neighbouring communities.

View planned prescribed fires in the mountain national parks.

Wildfire risk reduction work helps limit fire intensity, reduces the potential for spot fires from windblown embers, and improves the effectiveness of fire suppression techniques. FireSmart is a key part of this work.

Did you know: Parks Canada is an active member of the FireSmart program. The FireSmart program empowers the public and increases community resilience to wildfire across Canada.

Learn more about how you can protect yourself and your community.

Radium Hot Springs Aquacourt Wildfire Risk Reduction (expected completion spring 2023)
As early as November 14, 2022, Parks Canada will be selectively removing and/or limbing vegetation (branches, logs, shrubs) on the hillside behind the Radium Hot Springs Aquacourt. The hot springs will remain open during operations.
Once work is complete, the thinned areas will increase wildfire protection for visitors, staff and infrastructure at the historic Radium Hot Springs Aquacourt. It will improve ecological integrity and increase resilience to climate change. In addition, it will enhance habitat for local wildlife populations.
During operations:
• Woody debris will be removed or burned on site. Visitors to the Radium Hot Springs pools and motorists passing by on Highway 93 South can expect to see smoke and flames from pile burning. Every effort will be made to limit smoke during pile burning. However, unpredicted changes in weather can increase and redirect smoke.
• Visitors to the hot springs can also expect to hear and see chainsaw work. Operations are being completed during the mid-week when the facility is less busy.
• An area closure will be in place for the project area for the duration of operations. This will include a portion of the Redstreak Campground trail. For an up to date list of area closures, visit Important Bulletins.

To be added to an email notification list, please contact Lake Louise, Yoho and Kootenay Field Unit.

• Smoke notification list: Residents who are sensitive to smoke can receive advance warning of burning.
• Community stakeholders list: Fire information for local organizations and businesses who wish to stay informed about fire operations.