Prescribed burns planned at CFB Suffield next week

Sep 26, 2026 | 7:01 AM

Residents in the Medicine Hat area may see smoke on the horizon next week as Canadian Forces Base Suffield conducts another round of prescribed burns.

The burns are scheduled to take place in the base’s National Wildlife Area from Tuesday, Sept. 29 through Saturday, Oct. 3, weather permitting.

Residents may notice smoke visible from a distance, along with increased emergency vehicle activity near the base.

The Base says the burns are planned environmental management activities intended to help maintain healthy prairie ecosystems and support species at risk, including the Ord’s Kangaroo Rat.

Fire suppression resources will be on site throughout the operation, and the burns will proceed only when weather conditions are considered appropriate.

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There is no anticipated impact to daily activities outside the base perimeter and no danger to surrounding communities.

The CFB Suffield National Wildlife Area covers more than 45,000 hectares of native prairie.

The prescribed burns are part of ongoing land-management efforts at CFB Suffield.

Earlier this year, the base also conducted prescribed burns in its Range and Training Areas as part of a fire mitigation plan.

Residents with questions or concerns about next week’s burns can contact CFB Suffield Range Control at 403-544-4310.

by Jesse Gill

Prescribed burns planned at CFB Suffield next week

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