Prescribed burn in Banff National Park expands beyond boundary

The Dormer Valley fire began as a prescribed burn in Banff National Park but soon outgrew its boundaries. (Supplied/Parks Canada)

A fire, set deliberately in Banff National Park in early September, has grown beyond the area that was originally planned, prompting a response from Alberta wildfire crews.

Parks Canada says the prescribed burn operation in Dormer Valley began last month and was supposed to be limited to a certain area.

However, officials say it grew beyond those boundaries and crossed into provincial lands on Oct. 19.

As a result of the situation, staff from Alberta Wildfire have been engaged to fight the blaze, which, due to more accurate mapping, is approximately 669 hectares in size.

Alexandria Jones, fire information officer with Banff National Park, says the fire did not grow significantly between Thursday night and Friday afternoon.

"There are currently four aircraft and 22 fire personnel responding. Additional resources will be brought in if needed," Jones said in an email to CTV News on Friday.

"As a result of cooler temperatures and higher overnight humidity, the wildfire did not grow overnight."

Jones says cooler temperatures and possible precipitation are also expected to help with firefighting efforts.

Parks Canada says it will continue to work with its provincial partners to "ensure the protection of people, infrastructure, and neighbouring lands."

ANOTHER WILDFIRE IN THE BACKCOUNTRY

While wildland firefighters are in the Dormer Valley, another team is actively fighting a fire west of Glacier Lake on Highway 93 North, officials say.

That fire, which is approximately 600 hectares in size, has been burning since Oct. 14.

Parks Canada says the situation could impact drivers on the Icefields Parkway.

"Smoke and flames are currently visible from certain sections of Highway 93 North. The public, infrastructure and lands outside the park are not at risk from this wildfire.

"For public safety, an area closure is in place for the Glacier Lake Valley."