Alberta's fire chiefs are raising concerns over this year's wildfire season.

This year's drought conditions have led to preparations for water conservation across Alberta, but the Alberta Fire Chiefs Association (AFCA) is concerned not enough is being done to prepare for wildfires.

In an open letter to the provincial government, the AFCA is requesting better disclosure of the province's wildfire strategy and more dedicated resources, among other things.

"There is a growing concern among Fire Chiefs across the province of the lack of communication of what the plan is, allocation of funds compared to previous years and plan for the recruitment and deployment of firefighters and equipment," reads the letter.

The letter references the 2023 wildfire season, which saw 1,092 wildfires burning 2.2 million hectares of land.

Last year's wildfire season showed, says the AFCA, a "critical need for a comprehensive and proactive approach to wildfire management."

According to the AFCA, members of the group has met with provincial ministries and have requested the formation of a Provincial Fire Services Advisory Committee to develop a provincial wildfire response strategy.

They also advised that "reliance on municipalities to financially backstop wildland fire response is not sustainable."

The AFCA goes on to request more provincial support for resources toward wildfire management.

Their concerns are compounded by how quickly wildfire season is approaching.

"There is a growing concern among Fire Chiefs across the province of the lack of communication of what the plan is, allocation of funds compared to previous years and plan for the recruitment and deployment of firefighters and equipment."

The AFCA is made up of fire chiefs and deputy fire chiefs from across the province, with Okotoks Fire Chief Trevor Brice listed as Secretary Treasurer and Director at Large - Urban.

Alberta's wildfire season stretches from March 1 to October 31 of each year.

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