The Verdant Creek wildfire in Kootenay National Park and Assiniboine Provincial Park is no longer considered out of control.
It’s not out by any means, but Parks Canada officials say recent cooler temperatures and precipitation allowed crews working directly on the fire’s edge to make significant progress.
“The Verdant Creek wildfire is currently being held,” said spokesperson Christie Thomson, noting the fire is now in the monitoring stage.
“Parks Canada will continue to actively monitor the Verdant Creek wildfire using helicopters and ground crews.”
The last estimate on the size of the fire was about 17,644 hectares – or 1,760 square kilometres. No new update on the size of the fire is being provided at this stage.
The lightning-sparked Verdant Creek fire was first discovered on July 15. It completely burned down a backcountry warden cabin the following day as 70km/h winds spread the fire quickly.
At its height under extreme fire conditions, there were nine helicopters working with two additional machines available for initial attack, and approximately 100 personnel.
At times, conditions were so dangerous that crews could not safely fight the fire on the ground. It was one of the worst fire seasons in history for B.C.
Meanwhile, some officials working the Verdant Creek fire were re-directed to Waterton Lakes National Park when the Kenow fire ripped through the park and threatened the townsite.
Homes and businesses within the townsite were spared, but some park infrastructure was destroyed, including the Waterton Visitor Centre and East Gate Warden Station. Crandall campground was also significantly damaged.
Parks Canada officials say the Kenow fire remains active and covers an area of approximately 38,100 hectares, or 380 square kilometres, but is now classified as being held.
“Fire activity is predominantly on the fire perimeter and at localized hotspots within the perimeter where pockets of unburned fuels remain,” according to a news update.
“Fire activity, including smoke and flame, may be visible to the public in some areas, especially in the evening when darkness increases visibility of flames. Unified Command continues to action these areas, as required.”
Meanwhile, the fire ban has been lifted in Banff, Yoho and Kootenay National Park. The only exception is Redstreak campground in Kootenay.
The fire danger in Banff is now considered low.
