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Prescribed fire planned at Elk Island National Park for Fall 2024

Parks Canada recognizes that neighbours may have concerns stemming from this year’s fire season. Safety is the top priority when planning for prescribed fire. The Elk Island Fire Management Program is dedicated to ecological restoration and protecting habitats for many species, including species at risk. Parks Canada uses tools such as prescribed fire to maintain and restore fire adapted ecosystems and to build resilience in forests and grasslands because fire is a natural, regenerative process.

Prescribed fire season for fall 2024 could start as early as mid-September in Elk Island National Park. Fire management staff are doing ongoing monitoring to determine when weather and environmental conditions are right.

Two areas within the park have been identified for prescribed fire:

• Shirley Lake area: as many as 100 hectares (1km2) may be included.
• Hayburger area: as many as 428 hectares (4.28km2) may be included.

Updates on the prescribed fire will be shared via social media (Facebook and Twitter) and the prescribed fire mailing list (elkisland.fireinfo-infoincendie.elkisland@pc.gc.ca).

Please check the Important Bulletins page for information on area closures: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/elkisland/securite-safety/bulletins

Learn more about prescribed fire with the 5 Ws of prescribed fire:

1. What is prescribed fire? Prescribed fire is a planned fire that is set under specific, pre-determined conditions. They will not proceed unless these pre-determined conditions are confirmed. This is different from wildfire, which is unplanned and unpredictable. Prescribed fire allows for targeted reintroduction of fire as an important ecological process in ecosystems that would have historically relied on fire to help shape those ecosystems. You can help prevent wildfires. Report any wildfires, illegal campfires or suspicious smoke to Parks Canada Dispatch: 780-852-6155 or call 911.


2. Why do you do prescribed fires? Prescribed fire serves two purposes: Ecological Benefits: Elk Island National Park is in the aspen parkland, a fire-dependent ecosystem. The grasslands, forests and wildlife found in this area depend on the natural cycle of fire to recycle nutrients and regenerate plants. In the absence of fire, aspen trees begin to encroach on grasslands, reducing habitat for sensitive grassland species and grazing area for bison. Wildfire Risk Reduction: Prescribed fires reduce the fuel available to wildfires. Wildfires are fuelled by things like thick undergrowth, coniferous trees, grasses, leaves and brush, and fallen branches. Removing these plant materials reduces the intensity of wildfires, slows their spread, and makes them easier to control or extinguish.


3. Who manages the prescribed fire? Prescribed fires are planned and managed by trained wildland fire management specialists. All Parks Canada wildland fire management personnel are required to successfully complete a series of training and fitness evaluations which meet Canadian and international requirements. Elk Island National Park has more than 20 employees trained in fire management. The team is led by a Fire Management Officer and Wildfire Technician who have a combined 29 years of wildfire experience. The park also works closely with groups and organizations that are involved in wildfire management to ensure the safety of communities, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands. All prescribed fires plans tie back to the Elk Island National Park Fire Management plan that was renewed in consultation with Indigenous communities and provincial colleagues in the ministries of Environment, Agriculture and Forestry in 2018. We also work closely with our neighbours in Strathcona, Lamont, and Beaver County to keep residents informed and share wildfire resources, if needed.


4. When do prescribed fires happen? Prescribed fires are complex operations that may require several years of preparation. Before a prescribed fire is set, a detailed plan, or a prescription, is developed to outline the goals of the prescribed fire, establish the local weather and environmental conditions needed to start the prescribed fire, and determine the resources needed to complete the work safely, like the number of personnel and types of equipment. The weather has to be just right - not too dry, not too wet, and not too windy, but just windy enough for the fire to catch. We also need to consider how green the grass is, as green vegetation is difficult to ignite. The image above shows grass that is 100% “cured” and ideal for prescribed fire. At Elk Island National Park, these conditions are generally present in spring (between March-May) and fall (between late August- early November), before and after the park greens up.


5. Where do prescribed fires happen? At Elk Island National Park, 3 areas have been identified for prescribed fire: Shirley Lake (in the northwest corner of the park), Hayburger (central, north of the bison loop) and South Block (two units, one north of the wood bison trail, and one in the southwest corner). All these areas have been carefully selected for the ecological benefit the fire will provide. For example, the Shirley Lake unit is an important grazing area for bison. We also consider areas that include features that can help keep fire in the designated area such as surrounding lakes and boundary roads.

Stay safe and informed by joining our fire information mailing list.

More information:

Elk Island National Park: parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/elkisland/nature/feu-fire
Alberta Fire Bans: albertafirebans.ca
Alberta Wildfire: wildfire.alberta.ca

Media Inquiries
Elk Island National Park External Relations
Tel: 587-341-9751
Email: einp-pneimedia@pc.gc.ca

Visit the Wahkotowin Craft Market on August 24th and support Indigenous artisans!

“Wahkotowin represents the interconnected relationship between all the living and non-living. To have this market on our traditional lands is a representation of that interconnected relationship. As an Indigenous vendor and person, I wanted to be a part of that safe space to build relationships, to learn from others and the land, while also connecting to community.”
- Scarlett Cardinal, wâpimikwâniw & Co.

The Wahkotowin Craft Market is returning to Elk Island National Park! Visit Elk Island on Saturday, August 24th between 12 pm and 6 pm where more than 25 local Indigenous artisans will be showcasing their art and craft work for sale in the beautiful Astotin Lake Recreation Area.

Food trucks will provide a variety of lunch options and sweet treats. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at bison conservation by joining the Bison Backstage Tour, starting from the Visitor Information Centre at 12:30 pm, 2 pm and 3:30 pm.

Visit the Wahkotowin Craft Market and join Elk Island National Park in showing your support for local Indigenous artisans!

“My inspiration is my heritage and the land. And what better way to showcase that than in Elk Island National Park? […] This is not just a market; this is a true collaboration with Indigenous peoples and our connection to the land. I am truly honored to be a part of this amazing collaboration.”
- Kerry, Sacred Fire Creations

“[Elk Island National Park] is a beautiful space and it’s the perfect environment for buying Indigenous creations and enjoying nature. […] I also wanted to participate so I can seek out other talented artists whose work I may not have known about otherwise, and to expose my own.”
- Mercedees Deacon, Northern Provisions

Elk Island National Park is committed to continuing to build and improve relations through greater involvement of Indigenous peoples in park management and operations, which is a key strategy in Elk Island’s management plan.

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Media inquiries
Elk Island National Park Media
einp-pneimedia@pc.gc.ca

July 25 is World Drowning Prevention Day – Parks Canada

Knowing how to prevent and prepare for emergencies on the water, and what to do if one occurs, may save your life. Plan ahead and get the most out of your next water adventure!

Do your part, be water smart!

• Take the essentials and share a trip plan with a trusted family member or friend. Make sure you match your adventure with your ability level, knowledge, equipment and the conditions that day.
• Complete a pre-departure checklist and take a boating safety course to learn how to avoid potential dangers and operate pleasure crafts safely.
• Always wear a certified life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) properly. Lifejackets are like seat belts – they only work if you wear them, and wear them properly. Forgot your PFD? Rent one at Ridge Wilderness Adventures, located in the Astotin Lake Recreation Area.
• There are no lifeguards at Elk Island National Park. Even in a boat, stay close to the shore. Children and weak swimmers must be supervised at all times when they are in or around water. If you are not "within arms' reach" of your children, you have gone too far.
• Check the weather before you leave and be prepared for sudden changes – strong winds can turn Astotin Lake from serene to dangerous quickly.
• Be prepared to self-rescue should any boat, canoe or kayak capsize. Help may not be nearby.
• Transport Canada requires minimum safety equipment on all types of recreational watercraft – including boats, canoes, paddleboards, and kayaks.
• Hypothermia happens quickly. Even in the summer, lakes can be cold. Watch for symptoms, including shivering, confusion, slurred speech, drowsiness and low energy.
• There are currently blue-green algae blooms in Astotin Lake. Avoid contact with the water. These blooms are caused by naturally occurring organisms that can be toxic if ingested, especially to pets. Check the important bulletins and posted signage at Astotin beach for updated information.

Paddling

Rent a canoe, kayak or paddleboard from Ridge Wilderness Adventures. See hours, pricing and make a reservation online. Leave motor-powered vessels (including electric motors) at home. They are prohibited on lakes in Elk Island National Park to protect nesting birds.

Visit STARTboating for paddling safety information in Mandarin, Cantonese, Hindi and Tagalog.

Stay up to date with Elk Island National Park
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Media inquiries
Elk Island National Park Media
einp-pneimedia@pc.gc.ca

Know before you go – Top 5 tips to enjoy Elk Island National Park!

There is something for everyone at Elk Island National Park this summer. Safety and etiquette are a shared responsibility. A great trip starts with being informed and prepared. Plan ahead to get the most out of your next visit and enjoy a summer of fun!

Tip #1: Plan ahead

Be prepared for wherever adventure takes you. It is important for visitors to be self-sufficient, self-reliant, and plan ahead.

• Pack essential items, share a trip plan with family or friends, know how to use your equipment and check the weather before you leave. Not sure what to include in a trip plan? Use the AdventureSmart trip planning app to get started.
• Visit the Elk Island National Park website and follow us on social media (Facebook and X) for park updates, trail conditions and trip inspiration.
• A Park pass is required at all times. Get your Discovery Pass online to save time at the entry gates!
• Catch a ride on the Parkbus! Parkbus brings visitors from downtown Edmonton to Elk Island National Park on weekends.
• Last minute planner? Visit the Wahkotowin Visitor Information Centre to plan your route when you arrive!

Tip #2: Expect crowds

It’s important to pack your patience – you may encounter lineups at the park gates, overflowing parking lots at popular day-use areas and hiking trails, and park closures due to vehicle capacity constraints. Vehicle congestion can impede emergency vehicles from attending to an incident and Park staff from performing critical visitor safety, human-wildlife conflict, or law enforcement duties.

• We recommend a morning outing before 11 am on weekends or visiting the Park mid-week Monday to Friday.
• If the Park is full, please consider other destinations to enjoy in the area such as:
  • Cooking Lake-Blackfoot Provincial Recreation Area,
  • Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village,
  • Strathcona Wilderness Centre
  • Métis Crossing.

Tip #3: View wildlife safely and keep dogs on a leash

Seeing wildlife in their natural habitat is a privilege that comes with responsibility. Help keep wildlife wild:

• Give bison at least 100 m of space at all times, about the length of 10 school busses. DO NOT EXIT your vehicle within 100m of bison. Bison are wild animals. They may look easygoing, but bison can act defensively if startled, stressed or threatened. Violators may be charged under the Canada National Parks Act: maximum penalty $25 000.
• If you see a bear along the roadside, DO NOT STOP. Continue to drive by slowly and give them space. Bears who are viewed too often will lose their natural fear of humans and vehicles, putting the safety of the bear, you, other visitors and surrounding communities at risk.
• Keep pets on leash and under physical control at all times. This keeps you, your pet and wildlife safe. Off-leash pets can provoke wildlife, which could then injure you, your pet, other visitors or wildlife.
• Do not feed wildlife. It is illegal to feed or disturb wildlife in national parks. This is for your safety and theirs. Violators may be charged under the Canada National Parks Act: maximum penalty $25 000.
• Speeding kills. Slow down and obey posted speed limits for your safety and the safety of wildlife. Drive carefully and watch for wildlife especially around sunrise, sunset and when it is dark, and obey posted no stopping zones.
• Report wildlife encounters or dead animals to Parks Canada Dispatch 24-hours a day: 1-877-852-3100.

Tip #4: Do your part be water smart

Exploring the open water of Astotin Lake is an invigorating experience when done safely. Stay safe in, on and around water. Understanding water safety can help prevent an emergency.

• There are no lifeguards on duty. Children and weak swimmers must be supervised at all times when they are in or around water. If you are not "within arms' reach" of your children, you have gone too far.
• Make the most of every water adventure by carrying essential safety equipment as required by Transport Canada on all types of recreational watercraft – boats, canoes, and kayaks.
• Wear a certified lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) when on the water.
• Check the weather before you leave shore and prepare for the unexpected – strong winds can turn Astotin Lake from serene to dangerous quickly.
• Leave motor-powered vessels (including electric motors) at home. They are prohibited in Elk Island National Park.
• Be aware of periodic blue-green algae blooms in Astotin Lake. These are caused by naturally occurring organisms that can be toxic if ingested, especially to pets. Check the important bulletins and posted signage at Astotin beach for updated information.

Tip #5: Keep the park clean

Visitors are expected to keep food and garbage secure, use garbage containers, and to leave the park as they found it. Garbage attracts wildlife and is a risk to visitor and wildlife safety. It is also unpleasant for other visitors.

• Do not litter. Put garbage in designated containers throughout the Park.
• Clean as you go, collect all litter and garbage promptly and dispose in garbage containers.
• If a garbage container is full, do not leave garbage on the ground next to it - use the next one or bring the garbage with you when you leave.
• Keep picnic areas and campsites clean. Never leave scented items unattended even for a minute. Scented items include food (including pet food), toiletries, dirty dishes, garbage and even empty coolers. All these must be secured when not in use, in something like a vehicle, hard-sided trailer, bear-proof food locker, bear-resistant canister or elevated food cache.

Stay up to date with Elk Island National Park
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Media inquiries

Elk Island National Park Media
einp-pneimedia@pc.gc.ca

Become a community scientist at Elk Island National Park!

Parks Canada is seeking nature-lovers, budding scientists and outdoors people of all ages and experience levels to support research and conservation projects at Elk Island. Enjoy time outdoors, explore new areas of the park and add valuable field research skills and experience to your resume by joining one (or all) of these exciting projects!

Become a volunteer scientist and contribute to conservation research at Elk Island!

• Join Mission Monarch and help scientists study the butterflies, caterpillars and milkweed plants at Elk Island. Data collected by volunteer researchers will help to protect butterflies and their habitat. Contact benevoleselkisland-elkislandvolunteers@pc.gc.ca to become a volunteer!
• Help protect grasslands from invasive plants! Join Parks Canada for a Weed Pull event on August 10th at 10 a.m. at Elk Island. Be prepared to take some basic training on plant identification and mechanical weed control. No experience necessary. To join in, contact benevoleselkisland-elkislandvolunteers@pc.gc.ca.
• Record wildlife sightings while hiking, picnicking or camping on the iNaturalist app! From wildflowers and mushrooms to squirrels and birds, snap a photo of your sighting from a safe distance and upload it to your iNaturalist app. See the top Elk Island sightings and add yours!
• Check out the Friends of Elk Island Society to find more community science and volunteering opportunities throughout the year!

Stay up to date with Elk Island National Park
Connect with us on social media (Facebook and X) and sign up for our new e-newsletter.

Media inquiries

Elk Island National Park Media
einp-pneimedia@pc.gc.ca