Fires on Frozen Lakes
IT IS THEREFORE RESOLVED THAT Alberta Municipalities advocate to the Government of Alberta to develop, implement, and enforce, a regulation that mandates fires be contained within raised containers to mitigate the risk of debris contamination and to prevent environmental damage caused by fires directly lit on the surface of frozen lakes.
WHEREAS fires directly lit on the surface of frozen lakes results in significant environmental damage due to the debris left behind, including materials such as garbage, tires, and pallets containing nails;
WHEREAS the debris from fires directly lit on the surface of frozen lakes poses a threat to the ecosystem of Alberta lakes and surrounding areas, particularly upon melting, when it enters the lake and contributes to environmental pollution;
WHEREAS the current regulatory framework lacks specific provisions to regulate fires directly lit on frozen lakes, necessitating the development of a new regulation to address this emerging environmental challenge;
WHEREAS there is an urgent need for a regulation to address this issue and prevent further harm to the environment; and
WHEREAS collaborative efforts between municipalities, the provincial government, and other stakeholders have proven effective in addressing environmental concerns in the past.
The practice of burning fires directly on the surface of frozen lakes, as observed in Sylvan Lake and surrounding areas, has raised concerns due to the environmental damage caused by the debris left behind. The debris often contains harmful materials such as nails, garbage, and tires, posing a significant risk to the ecosystem upon melting.
While efforts have been made to address this issue through existing channels, such as 310-PARKS, the current system has proven ineffective in resolving the problem.
To mitigate the environmental impact of fires on frozen lakes, it is imperative to develop a regulation mandating fires be contained and removed when the user concludes their time on the lake. This regulation would not only prevent debris contamination, but also facilitate effective enforcement measures to ensure compliance.
By working collaboratively with relevant stakeholders, including municipalities, the Government of Alberta can address this pressing environmental concern and safeguard the integrity of Alberta's natural resources.
Alberta Municipalities does not currently have a position on this issue. If this resolution is passed, it would be forwarded to the Government of Alberta for response and further advocacy would be recommended to ABmunis’ Board by the Environment and Sustainability Committee within the context of other priorities and positions.
ABmunis members were unable to vote on this resolution at ABmunis’ 2024 Convention due to insufficient time resulting from the high number and length of debate on other resolutions. Following the Convention, ABmunis consulted members in November 2024 prior to a vote by ABmunis Board of Directors where the resolution was adopted.