Clean the Peaks Day

This past weekend, I joined an incredible group of volunteers for the first-ever Clean the Peaks Day, a day focused on making our neighbourhood safer from wildfires while building stronger connections with one another.

Over 20 volunteers came out to help reduce the risk of wildfire in the Peaks of Grassi community. We cleared debris, raked out pine needles, and piled up dead branches doing our part to protect homes and natural spaces we all love. But this day wasn’t just about hauling brush. For us, it was also about what happens when people come together with purpose. Neighbours who had never met before worked side by side. Some folks brought their kids, others shared laughs and stories while loading wheelbarrows and sweeping driveways. I had great conversations with old friends and made a few new ones too. That’s the kind of energy that reminds me why I believe in community-led action.

Thanks to Alpine Precision Tree Services, who generously donated their time and chipping services, and to Azuro Outdoor Design and Construction, who helped with all the debris that couldn’t be chipped. Together, they removed more than 6 tons of material that’s 6 tons of potential wildfire fuel taken out of the community. And volunteers made 17 trips to the Boulder Crescent Recycling Depot to drop off bags of yard waste.

It’s also worth mentioning that residents went above and beyond clearing more than double the amount of material expected. We couldn’t get to every pile in one day, but clean-up will continue this week.

I’m so grateful to live in a place where people care this deeply. Big thanks to Beamer’s Coffee Bar, Famous Chinese Restaurant, Save-On-Foods, FireSmart Canada, and the Town of Canmore for their support.

When we come together like this, it’s not just about fire safety, it’s about building a stronger, more connected Canmore. And that’s the kind of town I want to keep working for.