Lost Creek FireSummer Disaster in the Crowsnest Pass

Trevor James Education 3508

Photo by Gregory Melle

Lost Creek Fire

• August 21, 2003

• Over 20,000 hectares of forest blazed

• 6km in width and 50m high

• Energy equivalent of an atomic explosion

Photo by Dan Dawson

Local Residents Evacuated

Residents of Hillcrest evacuated

10 a.m. Authorities declare evacuation

Few personal possessions salvaged

“Feeling of masochistic” explains resident Elaine HrubyPhoto by Ron A. Parker

Influence on IndustriesTimber industry and tourism

negatively effected

Local dry cleaners, gas stations, restaurants and offices okay

Spray Lake sawmills, owning 28% quota of annual allowable salvage, will benefit

Gains depend on root scorch and de-barking cost Photo by Sarah

Ecological Effect

Creation of ecological diversity previously nonexistent

Development of rich undergrowth

Unsightly terrain – devoid of life

Pros:

Cons:

Photo by Rachel F. James