The historical resort town of Jasper deep in Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada, is grieving right now. Devastating wildfires have wiped out at least 30% of the town that punches well above it’s weight, traditionally hosting millions of visitors a year including skiers and snowboarders riding nearby Marmot Basin ski resort.
Over 89,000 acres of parkland has been destroyed, displacing both residents and park wildlife.
“In the wake of news that wildfire had reached our town, and the knowledge that the Jasper Wildfire Complex is still classified as out of control, we are faced with a level of loss that’s yet to be quantified,” wrote Tyler Riopel, CEO of Tourism Jasper, in a recent media statement.
“But our strength has always been in our community, in our people (as exemplified by the heroic efforts of emergency responders and local support staff ever since this tragedy began).
“Jasperites will be back to rebuild and when they do, one of the best ways to help them in the long-term will be to spend within the town. Eat in our restaurants, stay in our hotels, use our services, explore with our outfitters, rediscover Jasper.”
Australian skiers and snowboarders have held a long term love affair with Canada’s ski towns and snow fields. Jasper’s tragedy has tugged at our hearts, not least because we know bushfire devastation all too well.
Our mountains have stood tall for millions of years, and Jasper will stand tall through this.
Until we know when and how we can physically support Jasper by revisiting the town and Marmot Basin, we can help in other ways.
The Jasper Community Team Society is a longstanding non-profit organisation that will ensure funds go directly to helping this incredibly special place get back on its feet.
You can donate to the relief fund via this link.
Stay safe, Jasper, we will be back.
