Funding from the 2024 Provincial Budget for wildfires was highlighted today in Slave Lake. 

This year, $19 million is being invested in wildfire prevention, preparedness, and response. The funding includes two new air tanker groups and two new night vision-equipped helicopters. 

“Our enhanced night operations will benefit from these Budget 2024 investments,” Minister of Forestry and Parks Todd Loewen said in a news conference Monday. “During the 2023 wildfire season, Alberta Wildfire piloted several programs, one of which included wildland firefighters and personnel working extended hours to combat wildfires.”

Loewen said almost all of the fires this year have been caused by human activity. 

“Every Albertan must do their part in maintaining awareness of current wildfire risk levels, staying up to date on fire bans, advisories, and restrictions, and above all, exercising extreme caution when spending time outdoors.”

Some rain helped wildfire efforts this weekend. There are currently 48 active wildfires in the province and all but five are considered under control.