Highway 40 West FireSmart Project

During the summer of 2021, the County of Grande Prairie worked to assess and plan for wildfire risks on public and Crown lands located west of Highway 40, south of the City of Grande Prairie limits, also known as the Highway 40 West area. The project was supported by FireSmart grant funds, and included planning for future vegetation management in the area, providing opportunities for FireSmart education and engaging with nearby residents and other groups. The questions and input from residents and organizations at that time informed the final project plan. Read the "Final Report" for details (found under Key Documents on the right side of this page).

In 2023, the County is moving forward with vegetation management and fuel reduction work in the area. The previous planning and engagement project, as well as the vegetation management work, is part of the County's Wildfire Mitigation Strategy, which works to lower the risk of wildfire or – in the case of a wildfire – reduce the risk of loss of life and damage to infrastructure.

The County has engaged Wildfire Property Protection Ltd. to complete the vegetation management work and Infinite Forestry Consulting to provide day-to-day project supervision and technical expertise. The project area is 23 hectares of public and Crown land. As much work as possible will take place before spring thaw in 2023; however, no burning of debris will take place until after fire season ends on November 1, when it's safe to burn. All County fire permit processes will be followed, including an onsite inspection by the Fire Marshall.

Learn more about this project by viewing "Key Dates". Sign up to "Stay Informed" to receive project updates in your email. Learn more about the County's Wildfire Mitigation Strategy and FireSmart initiatives in "Frequently Asked Questions and Background Information" and "Important Links".