Parks Canada Faces Criticism Over Wildfire Response in Jasper

Parks Canada has faced criticism for not removing dead trees killed by mountain pine beetle infestations, which critics say left Jasper vulnerable to recent wildfires. The agency defends its actions, citing long-term strategies to mitigate wildfire risks. The fires, fueled by climate change, have destroyed nearly a third of Jasper's structures.

Parks Canada, the federal agency managing the country's national parks, has rejected criticism claiming it left the town of Jasper vulnerable to wildfires by not removing more dead trees impacted by mountain pine beetle infestations.

A massive wildfire destroyed nearly a third of Jasper's structures last week, but Canadian Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault announced on Monday that fires in the town are now extinguished. However, blazes continue to burn across Jasper National Park, with no clear timeline for residents' return.

The ongoing mountain pine beetle outbreak, beginning in British Columbia in the early 1990s, has ravaged over 18 million hectares of Canadian forests. Critics argue that Parks Canada has focused too much on preserving natural ecosystems instead of removing beetle-affected trees around Jasper. Ron Hallman, head of the agency, emphasized the multifaceted efforts to minimize fire risks, including controlled burns, installing sprinkler systems, and mechanical removal of trees.

Climate change has exacerbated the situation with milder winters and drier summers allowing the beetle to spread. Jasper Mayor Richard Ireland noted that the town's pre-emptive measures had prevented greater destruction during the recent wildfires.

(With inputs from agencies.)