Cultural and Prescribed burn planned for McCulloch area



KELOWNA – The BC Wildfire Service will be supporting Westbank First Nation in conducting an ongoing cultural and prescribed burn project covering up to 86 hectares, about 10 kilometres southeast of Kelowna. The target area for this year’s burn will be approximately 41 hectares.

Smoke may be visible from Kelowna, West Kelowna and Lake Country, and to motorists travelling along Highway 33 E.

The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as March 3, 2025, until the beginning of April. Burning will only 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:

  • Improve public safety through a reduction in fuel loading (standing and surface fuel) within the wildland urban interface (WUI).
  • Reduce build-up of dead grass, increasing the productivity of traditional foods and improving winter grazing for wildlife.
  • Helping to restore forest health and a properly functioning ecosystem.
  • Provide cross training opportunities between BC Wildfire Service and Westbank First Nation.

The Cultural Burning and Prescribed Fire Youtube is an excellent resource to learn more about prescribed and cultural fire.

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.

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 (https://rb.gy/90uh5s) 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: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke

You can follow the latest wildfire news on:

Contact:
Dave Gill
General Manager of Forestry
Ntityix Resources
250-768-5617

Fire Information Officer
BC Wildfire Service
Kamloops Fire Centre
250-554-5965
BCWS.KFCInfo@gov.bc.ca

Connect with the Province of BC at www.gov.bc.ca/connect.