A "high-risk encampment" in the Lethbridge River Valley has been taken down. (Photo: City of Lethbridge)v

By David Opinko

Lethbridge teams dismantle ‘high-risk encampment’ in coulees

May 28, 2025 | 12:28 PM

The City of Lethbridge says an encampment that was reportedly causing “high concern due to safety, environmental and structural risks” has been taken down.

The Encampment Response Team and Outreach Support partnered with Lethbridge Fire and Emergency Services (LFES) to locate the tent structure in the River Valley.

A drone allowed the groups to identify the site in a difficult-to-access area in the coulees and assess any potential hazards.

It was identified as a “Tier 3” encampment, which is the highest level under the City’s Encampment Strategy.

The LFES Water Rescue Team used a jetboat to reach the encampment. Crews say they cleaned up more than 1,000 kilograms of debris, including a cast iron stove, propane tanks and open flame devices.

Nighttime construction on Hwy 3 in Lethbridge starts April 17

Apr 17, 2025

SASHA launches #BuyABed fundraiser to support vulnerable Lethbridge residents

Apr 04, 2025

$20K grants available: TELUS STORYHIVE Pan-Asian Edition opens applications April 1

Mar 18, 2025

“This kind of coordinated response is essential to managing fire risk in Lethbridge’s natural areas,” says Greg Adair, LFES Chief of Fire and EMS. “By combining our tools and expertise with the outreach team’s knowledge and engagement, we can protect people and prevent fires before they start.”

Outreach support staff say they offered the residents of the encampment services before and during the operation.

For local news delivered daily to your email inbox, subscribe for free to the Lethbridge News Now newsletter here. You can also download the Lethbridge News Now mobile app in the Google Play and the Apple App Stores.