2. THE FIRE - AUG 21, 2003
• Problem arose when a
seasonal wildfire became
out of control.
• The fire changed
directions and was
diverted towards the
Crowsnest Pass.
3. THE FIRE - AUG 21, 2003
• The fire consisted of a 6-km wall of
flame that reached 50 m into the sky.
• The energy given off by the fire was
the equivalent of a an atomic
explosion every 30 minute.
4. RESIDENTIAL EVACUATIONS
• Many people were asked to leave their homes.
• Ex. Elaine Hruby.
• Left Hillcrest around 10 am.
• Was only able to take her pets and a few personal
belongings.
• Hruby then drove about 20 km out of town and watched
the flames veer down on Hillcrest.
• Despite her horror, she couldn’t stop looking and felt
masochistic. But those flames were like a magnet.
5. RESULTS - THE AREA
• Burned over 20,000 hectares of forest
• Affected not only the timber industry and also local
businesses.
• Tourism was hit hard, but other businesses maintained
steady business.
• However a businsess that benefited was the Spray Lake
Sawmills, they will use a significant amount of the burnt
lumber so that it doesn't go to waste.
6. RESULTS - ECOLOGY
Pros
Cons
A burned area creates
ecological diversity Burned area is black and
devoid of life.
Allows for the development
of rich undergrowth that Kills many plants and animals
wasn’t there before. that were present previously.