MERRITT – The BC Wildfire Service will be supporting Shackan Indian Band in conducting a prescribed burn covering up to 75 hectares, about 35 kilometres west of Merritt.
Smoke may be visible to surrounding communities and to motorists travelling along Highway 8.
The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as Monday, March 3, 2025. Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days.
Key goals of this prescribed burn include:
- Returning a natural and necessary process to the land base
- Preparing the site to allow traditional food plants to re-establish before grass re-growth
- Improving ungulate winter grazing
- Removing forest fuels to reduce the long-term risk of wildfire
- Provide a cross training opportunity with Shackan Indian Band community
Fire is a normal and natural process in many of B.C.’s ecosystems. The BC Wildfire Service works regularly with a range of partners to undertake fuel management activities (including the use of controlled burns), to help reduce the severity of future wildfires and related threats to communities. These projects are carefully planned and only go ahead at the right times and under the right conditions to ensure community and practitioner safety.
Visit the BC Wildfire Service Cultural and prescribed fire webpage for more information.
The Cultural Burning and Prescribed Fire webpage and YouTube channel are also excellent resources to learn more about prescribed and cultural fire.
Exposure to smoke can irritate eyes and respiratory tracts and worsen pre-existing lung and heart conditions. If your area is impacted by smoke:
- Run portable air cleaners with windows and doors closed, both commercial and home-made units can be effective if operated properly
- Reduce the length and intensity of outdoor activities
- Manage pre-existing conditions and seek medical care if you have severe symptoms
Learn more about protecting health from smoke online.
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Contact:
Fire Information Officer
Kamloops Fire Centre
BC Wildfire Service
250-554-5965
BCWS.KFCInfo@gov.bc.ca
Connect with the Province of B.C. at www.gov.bc.ca/connect.