FORT ST. JAMES – To enhance community protection and reduce wildfire risk, the BC Wildfire Service is supporting Nak’azdli Whut’en in conducting a prescribed burn along the west shore of Stuart Lake in the townsite of Fort St. James.
There are three primary burn locations as indicated on the map below, covering approximately 8.5 hectares.
The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as Wednesday, May 1, 2024. Smoke may impact residents near the burn areas and will be visible from the surrounding areas, and to motorists travelling along Highway 27.
Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable to achieve objectives and allow for smoke dispersal, though smoke may linger in the following days, particularly the morning after burn operations. Despite all precautions to manage it, unintended smoke impacts are possible after any burn.
Key objectives of this prescribed burn include:
- Enhancing community protection and mitigating wildfire risk, and
- Providing cross training opportunities for Fort St. James Fire and Rescue and members of Nak’azdli Whut’en First Nation.
The BC Wildfire Service works regularly with a number of partners to undertake fuel management activities, including the use of prescribed burns, to help reduce the severity of future wildfires and related threats to communities. More information on prescribed burning is available online.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone, or directly through the BC Wildfire Service mobile app.
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Contact:
Prince George Fire Centre Information Team
BC Wildfire Service | Ministry of Forests
Phone: 250-561-4629
Email: INFOPG@gov.bc.ca