Beyond Local

Stacey Skyrpan, a trapper from the Owl River area, says while it isn’t common for women to be involved in trapping, an increasing number are showing interest in and pursuing the traditional activity.

Decades of highly effective fire suppression in and around national parks have left them more vulnerable to large fires, according to Pierre Martel, the director of national fire management for Parks Canada.

“There's a tight knit group of folks who fly that meet up, whether it be West of [Canmore], Cochrane, or B.C., and there's something so special about hiking and launching off a peak above the town you live in and sharing that experience with other flyers,” said McKay.

Police said a 24-year-old man has died while fighting the Jasper National Park wildfire.

Evacuees will be able to get updates on the wildfire situation and answers to their questions from the provincial government, Alberta Wildfire and other government officials.

On Friday (Aug. 2), the hot and dry weather helped increase fire behaviour, with the activity picking up around Edith and Annette lakes and on Pyramid Bench. Fire crews and helicopter bucketing quickly suppressed this activity.

“She was there through the darkest days of my life, and I can honestly say I wouldn’t have been here without her.”

All residents are invited to register, but priority access will be given to those who have lost their homes.

Eligible residents can receive the free service for up to 12 months and have until Sept. 1 to register.

PHOTOS: Parks Canada photos of wildfire damage in Jasper