61 wildfires of various sizes were reported across the Grande Prairie Forest Area during the 2026 wildfire season which runs from March 1 to Oct 31.
According to the provincial government, the significant amounts of rainfall across the province contributed to a less active wildfire season than in previous years.
Minister of Forestry and Parks, Todd Loewen says that the recent wildfire season was a bit more different than in recent years.
“While the rainfall helped, we are very proud of the work our wildfire teams have done on initial attack, working to get fires under control before they become a threat to communities.”
Across the province, 785 wildfires burned just under 18,000 hectares, which is well below the five year of 996 wildfires, burning more than 660,000 hectares.
For a short-period back in mid-August, the Alberta wildfire map showed no active wildfires, marking the first time in 40 years there were zero recorded wildfires at that time of year.
Chief Operating Officer for Fire and Flood Emergency Services, Guy Parlette, says that wildfire season takes a team effort.
“Wildfire season asks a lot of everyone involved, and protecting communities takes a real team effort. Our crews move large volumes of water over long distances and tough terrain to support the firefighters, aircraft and equipment working the line. We’re proud to work alongside Alberta Wildfire and the communities we serve, and we’re grateful to every firefighter and partner who helped keep Albertans safe this season.”
Since April 1, 2025, almost 1,000 hectares of fuel breaks have been constructed by managing vegetation and clearing space in the forest to help slow wildfire spread and reduce fire intensity near developed areas. Officials added that more than 6,200 hectares have been treated near 24 at-risk communities through the Community Hazardous Fuels Reduction Program.
