Municipal District of Bonnyville Media Release
Fires allowed in southern section of M.D. of Bonnyville
Northern portion of M.D. under provincial fire and OHV bans
April 16, 2020 – Due to high moisture levels, the Municipal District of Bonnyville Council has decided not to follow the provincial government’s lead in imposing a fire and Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) ban within the southern section of the municipality, which is outside of the Lac La Biche Forest Protection Area (FPA).
Reeve Greg Sawchuk says at this time, the existing snow pack and high moisture levels have maintained a low fire risk in the municipality. “While the Government of Alberta has instituted a province-wide fire and OHV ban for the Forest Protection Areas (FPA) and provincial parks, which includes the northern portion of the M.D., residents living in the southern sections of the M.D. can enjoy the outdoors.” A map outlining the FPA (Section 5) can be found on the M.D. website and Facebook page. Residents still require a fire permit for open burning.
“Council will be reviewing conditions daily. When conditions warrant, the M.D. will follow the province’s lead and impose a fire ban for the entire M.D.,” Sawchuk says. “Given the restrictions being imposed on Albertans due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Council wants M.D. residents to be able to get outdoors and enjoy the warmer spring temperatures while they can. Council knows that as it continues to warm up, and the moisture disappears, a fire ban may be imposed.”
For up to date information on fire bans in Alberta, visit www.albertafirebans.ca.
While enjoying the outdoors, please continue to practice social distancing and follow the recommendations of Alberta’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, which includes limiting groups to 15 or less. For up-to-date COVID-19 information please visit www.ahs.ca/covid19.
Fire Guardian Map 2020