A large wildfire broke out in Crowsnest, Alberta on August 21, 2003, creating a 50 meter tall wall of flames over 6 km long with energy equivalent to an atomic explosion. Local resident Elaine Hruby was evacuated from her home at 10am that day with only a few items, finding the flames engulfing Hillcrest as she witnessed the fire. While tourism declined, other local businesses were maintained, and Spray Lake Sawmills expected to salvage some burnt lumber. The fire led to increased ecological diversity as rich undergrowth developed.

1. Crowsnest Fires

2. Crowsnest Fires August 21, 2003 Out of control fire breaks loose 6 km wall 50 m tall flames Fire's energy equivalent to atomic explosion

3. Residential Evacuations Resident: Elaine Hruby Evacuated: 10 a.m. August 21, 2003 Only escaped with a few items Personal Account: “I didn't know what to take.” “You start doing crazy things.” Witnessed the flames engulf Hillcrest Personal Account: “I felt masochistic, but those flames were like a magnet.”

4. Outcome Decline in tourism Other local businesses still maintained Spray Lake Sawmills will be able to salvage some burnt lumber Ecological Diversity Development of rich undergrowth