Residents in the Coal Camp area, 50 kilometres west of Sundre along the Red Deer River, have the opportunity to learn the best method to reduce wildfire risk at a provincial government sponsored open house in Sundre this Thursday, Sept. 15.The open house is set for 7 p.m. at the West Country Centre, 104 2 Ave. NW.Wade Colwell, provincial wildfire technologist in the forestry division for Clearwater area, said the government is seeking the input from Coal Camp subdivision residents on a proposal to create a vegetation management plan to reduce the wildfire risk to the community. He said his department wants to find out which management option is best suited for the 80 community residents.ìWe recognize there is a need to reduce the wildfire threat to residents,î said Colwell. ìWe want to meet the residents about these issues.îHe said there have not been recent wildfire problems in the area but residents will be presented with a 10-year history, including data, for the area.ìWe will do a simulation of what can happen, and paint a picture for them,î said Colwell, adding a 20-minute presentation will be made to interested residents. ìWe will show and discuss with them a number of management options, and the hazards. One of those options is the removal of trees, clear-cutting. Like spruce trees are more of a threat than, say, pine.ìWe want to get a feel from residents of what they want and what they don't want.îDoors to the open house open at 6:30 p.m. The formal presentation begins at 7 p.m. Coffee and snacks will be provided.
