Cochrane Fire Services has provided an update on its wildfire mitigation efforts and the progress of its local FireSmart program.
In a recent video shared on the Town of Cochrane’s official Facebook page, Fire Chief Shawn Polley outlined recent work completed in the Bow Ridge and Crawford Ranch areas.
“The contractors did a whole bunch of great work to create some nice brown spaces for our environment,” said Polley. “We have crews here doing hand chipping in the area and continuing to build that mulch bed.”
Crews have been actively pruning and thinning trees to reduce wildfire fuel. The project has now moved into a cleanup phase focused on removing chipping debris.
“We’re working with the contractor, our environmental consultants, and our forest professionals to create a landscape that will be more defendable from any type of wildland fire,” he explained. “This will help prevent wildfire from getting into the crown, which leads to high-intensity fires in the tops of the trees.”
Bow Ridge and Crawford Ranch are just two of several priority areas identified for mitigation work since February. Other areas include Riviera, Cochrane Heights, and land adjacent to Lofts on the Bow.
“FireSmart is not just about brush clearing—it’s a long-term risk prevention strategy,” said Polley. “We know wildfire risks are growing in Alberta, and here in Cochrane, we’re committed to staying ahead of it.”
FireSmart is a nationally recognized program focused on wildfire prevention and preparedness. It includes practical steps that residents can take to protect their homes and properties.
For more information on how to make your home FireSmart, visit: https://www.cochrane.ca/node/2229
