RMNP - Prescribed fire starting today (guard burning)

Parks Canada will start prescribed fire operations (guard burning) in the Lake Audy area of Riding Mountain National Park this afternoon. Prescribed fire will be used to limit the spread of aspen and shrubs, remove white spruce encroaching into grassland areas, and rejuvenate aging forest stands. These low‑intensity burns will reduce hazardous fuel buildup, support grassland expansion, and improve long‑term ecosystem resilience.

Closures are NOT yet in place for the following areas; however, they will be put in place as operations progress:

• Bison Enclosure and Facilities
• Lake Audy Road (from 61A to the district station)
• Lake Audy Dam Road
• Strathclair Trail (closed at both entrances), Central Trail – North Bison Enclosure to Gunn Lake, Long Lake Trail, Grasshopper Trail, Link Trail, Grasshopper Valley Trail
• Whitewater, Long Lake, Kinnis Creek, Vermillion, Minnedosa River backcountry sites

If/when closures are put in place, another email will be sent out. The safety of people, infrastructure and neighbouring lands is Parks Canada’s top priority.

Smoke and flames may be visible from a long distance, and smoke may drift to areas adjacent to the park. Neighbouring residents and property owners may experience some smoky conditions due to smoke travelling outside of the prescribed fire area.