Updated 5:44 pm, Monday, August 12th:
The Regional District of Fraser-Fort George has rescinded the evacuation alert for the Canoe Road Wildfire.
Original Story:
Valemount Mayor Owen Torgerson is thankful for the quick response from local and provincial wildfire crews downgrading an Evacuation Order to an alert for the Canoe Road blaze.
The fire is under control and remains at 9.5 hectares in size – a lightning strike within the vicinity of a private property known for a high fuel load was first discovered just after 4pm on Saturday.
Torgerson told Vista Radio while everyone is back home, the community isn’t out of the woods yet.
“While we had a quick response and the fire is being held, we still have dry lightning in the forecast without the chance of precipitation. Remain diligent, continue to fire smart your properties, sprinklers do work and remember to do you and be safe everyone.”
“Both Valemount and Jasper residents who are still staying with us, are quite relieved to be staying in an area that they call home.”
It’s already been a tough summer for the Robson Valley due to the Jasper wildfire that ravaged roughly 1/3 of the tourist-driven community.
Torgerson added businesses in Valemount and the surrounding area have been struggling due to the previous Highway 16 east closure that was in place due to the Alberta-based wildfire.
“With the closure of Highway 16 and Highway 93 south to Lake Louise, it’s a really popular circle route for visitors. Visitation opportunities have been lowered in terms of potential.”
“We have conducted a business community feedback forum here with our business leaders within the community and surrounding areas that is our prime message right now is that we are struggling.”
An Evacuation Alert for the Canoe Road fire remains in place.
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