This paper will show the progression of efforts made by the Alberta Forest Service (AFS) in developing guidelines for forest fire suppression that are in concert with human and forest resource values. A method for determining resource fire protection priorities was developed in 1985 by a task force from within the AFS fire management group. The method utilizes existing AFS data bases and is subject to interpretation by fire management staff. The forest protection area of the province is broken down into individual areas varying in size from a section (259 ha) to a township (9331 ha), and each area is assessed assuming all lands are managed for multiple use. All forest resource values plus the protection of people and real personal property from wildfire are considered and assigned points from a simple rating scheme. Prime protection areas are identified over and above the rating scheme for population centers, major developments, and certain land units of special status such as prime habitat areas supporting endangered species. Forest resource value items include timber recreation, watershed, wildlife, soil sensitivity, and minor developments. The system is intended to be used as a tool in conjunction with other components used to make fire management decisions. This system is the first step in developing a future priority map that will require detailed input from resource and land managers to refine priorities and correct any bias that may have developed during the initial preparation of the system. Source: Canadian Forest Service, Northern Forestry Centre. Abstract reproduced with permission of the Minister of Public Works and Government Services Canada, 1999.