Prescribed burn planned for northeast Edmonton park to mitigate wildfire risk – Edmonton [Video]

Alberta’s wildfire season officially began earlier this month and the City of Edmonton says crews will be conducting a prescribed burn in Northeast River Valley Park on Wednesday to help mitigate wildfire risk.

In a news release issued Tuesday, the city said the burn will take place sometime mid-morning as long as weather conditions are favourable to do so.

“The Northeast River Valley Park will be closed for the day as wildfire crews conduct the controlled operation designed to reduce wildfire risk and restore health to ecosystems,” city officials said.

“Smoke may be visible during and shortly after the burn. This is expected and is being monitored to minimize impacts.”

The park is located northwest of 17 Street and 149 Avenue.

Last month, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services officials provided an update to a city committee about the threat that wildfires pose to the cityand noted the wildfire risk appears to be less than in some previous years thanks to more snowfall this …