Calgary Sends Crews to Support Edmonton's Storm Recovery Efforts

Edmonton has experienced back-to-back weather events in recent weeks, causing widespread operational impacts across the city, with more storms in the forecast. These events have caused considerable damage to Edmonton's urban tree canopy, and the demand for specialized tree removal and hazard mitigation has outpaced the capacity of Edmonton's forestry crews and local contractors.

In response, the City of Calgary has established a temporary mutual aid agreement with the City of Edmonton to support recovery efforts. Certified forestry crews from the City of Calgary will begin arriving in Edmonton on July 29th, working alongside Edmonton forestry teams and private contractors to clear debris, address hazards, and assist with Dutch elm disease mitigation efforts.

Additional Calgary crews will travel to Edmonton in the days ahead, including Mobility and Waste & Recycling Services staff and equipment, supported by Fleet & Inventory Services, to help with debris removal.

Who's Being Sent

A high-level summary of the staff, equipment, and vehicles Calgary is sending to support Edmonton includes:

• Urban Forestry - 12 staff members onsite during the response, with relief crews arriving as needed. The team includes landscape horticulturalists, staff trained in technical falling and forestry ground crew operations, and trained labourers.

• Mobility - 10 drivers, operators, and labourers (DOLs) and 1 foreman.

• Waste & Recycling Services - 3 staff members to operate the rear-loading compactor unit.

  
  

Alberta Municipalities Supporting One Another

Calgary has experienced its own share of impactful weather events over the years and has received support from neighbouring communities during those times. This rapid mobilization to Edmonton is a strong example of Alberta municipalities working together in times of need.

There is no cost or service impact to Calgarians as a result of this response - all costs will be recovered from the City of Edmonton.