Should Parks Canada Remove Trees Near Jasper to Reduce Wildfire Risk?
Official title: Parks Canada Pyramid Bench Wildfire Risk Reduction 2025-2030
Parks Canada wants to remove trees from 500 hectares of forest near the town of Jasper. Why? To create firebreaks that would help protect the community from wildfires. The work would happen over five years, starting winter 2025/26.
Why This Matters
Live in or visit Jasper? This project aims to protect the townsite from wildfires like the devastating 2024 fire. It could also affect hiking trails and wildlife habitat in the Pyramid Bench area.
What Could Change
If approved, Parks Canada would thin or remove trees across 500 hectares northwest of Jasper. This creates fuel breaks to slow wildfire spread. The work would change the forest landscape but aims to make firefighting more effective.
Key Issues
- Is removing trees from 500 hectares the right approach to protect Jasper from wildfires?
- How will environmental and cultural impacts be mitigated?
Indigenous Consultation
This consultation requires engagement with Indigenous communities under the Crown's duty to consult.