Alberta has already seen 27 new wildfires so far into 2026, according to Minister of Forestry and Parks, and Central Peace-Notley MLA, Todd Loewen.
Loewen says that even with winter conditions still making an impact across the province, fire-crews have already responded to 27 new wildfires. Loewen said when wildfires start, we are ready to respond.
“Budget 2026 maintains strong, stable funding for wildfire response, ensuring crews, equipment, aircraft and technology are ready when and where they are needed,” Loewen said.
According to the Loewen , Alberta is a leader in using aircraft’s to fight wildfires.
“Helicopters play an important role, and we’re building on 2025’s success by expanding our hoist-equipped helicopter program with the addition of two helicopters and enhancing training at the Hinton Training Centre to support safe deployment in hard-to-access areas. We’re also expanding our night flying capability with three additional night-vision helicopters, bringing our total to seven, allowing crews to fight fires in cooler, more stable conditions and operate around the clock.”
“Wildfire safety is a shared responsibility. Follow fire bans and restrictions, obtain permits where required and fully extinguish campfires by soaking, stirring and soaking again. By working together, we can reduce risk and protect what matters most this wildfire season.”
Officials added that roughly 60 per cent of Albertan wildfires are caused by human activity, with the rest started by lightning. Officials say that small changes in behaviour can make a big difference this spring; checking conditions, following fire restrictions and ensuring winter burns are fully extinguished.
