Bulletins

Grasslands National Park

Pursuant to subsection 36(1) of the National Parks General Regulations, the following areas are closed to the public by order of the Superintendent:

WHY:
Grasslands National Park is conducting a prescribed fire to help control leafy spurge, an invasive weed that is present in the area. More information about prescribed fire in Grasslands National Park: parks.canada.ca/pn-np/sk/grasslands/nature/conservation/feu-fire

WHERE:
The former Lochart’s area of the East Block of Grasslands National Park.

PENALTY:
Violators may be charged under the Canada National Parks Act: maximum penalty $25 000.

Assuming safe burning conditions, Parks Canada will be initiating prescribed fire activities on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, in the East Block of Grasslands National Park (see map for location). Operations are expected to take place over two days. Crews will focus on burning an area of 26 hectares within a perimeter guard that was burned on October 2, 2024.

The purpose of the prescribed fire is to remove woody vegetation to control the underlying leafy spurge more effectively. Leafy spurge is a highly aggressive noxious weed that has continued to spread within and outside the park.

Smoke may be visible from a long distance, and neighbouring residents/property owners may experience smoky conditions outside of the prescribed fire area.   

Parks Canada’s first priority is the safety of people, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands. Parks Canada communicates with Indigenous communities, the Province of Saskatchewan, rural municipalities, and local communities to ensure appropriate wildfire readiness and response. Parks Canada fire management personnel are highly trained professionals and prepare a detailed prescribed fire plan, including careful monitoring of weather conditions, and an impact assessment before any work is done.

More information about Parks Canada’s National Fire Management Program can be found at: https://parks.canada.ca/nature/science/conservation/feu-fire.