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MACKENZIE

Wildfire mitigation project hopes to minimize risk for Mackenzie

Jun 3, 2021 | 4:59 PM

MACKENZIE – If you have ever driven into Mackenzie you’ll know there’s only one major road in, and one major road out.

In 2018, that major road, Highway 39, was briefly closed due to a wildfire which put everything into focus on what needed to be done.

To be clear, there are other roads, but most of them are not ideal for those with vehicles smaller than a truck if an evacuation was ever necessary.

That is what made the wildfire mitigation project a top priority.

Mayor of Mackenzie, Joan Atkinson says the work was crucial and was pleased to see the progress being made on the project.

The Wildfire Project Coordinator, Ian Leblanc says machinery along with hands-on work has led to a big chunk of Highway 39 being thinned.

The only concern from those behind the mitigation work is funding, which will need to continue flowing to ensure all of Highway 39 is taken care of.

The work aims to ensure the only egress route for Mackenzie citizens is maintained, and even if a wildfire encroaches on it, for the fire intensity to remain low.