How Should Edmonton Prepare for Wildfire Risk?
Official title: Wildland-Urban Interface Wildfire Risk Strategy
Edmonton is creating its first wildfire risk strategy for areas where the city meets natural vegetation. The draft plan focuses on four pillars: reducing fire risk, educating residents, improving emergency response, and coordinating with neighboring communities. The city wants your feedback on what actions both the city and residents should take.
Why This Matters
Live near Edmonton's river valley or ravines? Your home could be at risk during wildfire season. After watching Fort McMurray and Jasper burn, many Edmontonians are asking what their city is doing to prepare. This strategy will shape how the city manages vegetation, responds to fires, and helps you protect your property.
What Could Change
The city may require different landscaping in high-risk areas, replacing spruce and pine with deciduous trees like aspen and birch. New building guidelines could affect how homes are constructed near natural areas. The city might also expand text alert systems and create incentive programs for homeowners who make their properties more fire-resistant.
Key Issues
- What actions should the city take to reduce wildfire risk in areas where development meets natural vegetation?
- How can residents better prepare their homes and properties for wildfire?
- What education and awareness programs would help Edmontonians understand wildfire risk?
- How should the city coordinate wildfire response with neighboring communities?
How to Participate
- Review the draft strategy overview presentation to understand the proposed four pillars: Reduce, Educate, Respond, and Coordinate.
- Share your feedback on the consultation page by December 22. You can leave public comments about what you need to be better prepared for wildfires.
- For questions, contact the project manager at wildfirestrategy@edmonton.ca.
Submit Your Input
Questions Being Asked (1)
- What do you need to be better prepared for wildfires?