Cultural burn planned for Nicola Mameet IR #1



MERRITT – The BC Wildfire Service will be supporting Lower Nicola Indian Band in conducting a cultural burn that is part of a three-year project that started in 2024. The total size of this project is 249 hectares, and the goal for this spring is to burn the remaining 50 hectares, which will complete the project. This burn is located about six kilometres west of Merritt, adjacent to Highway 8 and 97C.
 
Key goals of this burn include:

  • Community protection to reduce fuel loading in urban interface areas
  • Reduce cured grass to allow for traditional foods and plants to re-establish
  • Improve ungulate grazing
  • Provide a cross training opportunity with the Lower Nicola Indian Band Fire Department
  • Provides an opportunity for the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology Fire Ecology Department to see live fire for educational purposes

Smoke may be visible from the Lower Nicola Community, City of Merritt, Nicola Mameet IR #1 and surrounding areas, and to motorists travelling along Highway 8, 97C, and 5.
 
The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as Monday, March 2. Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days.

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 and Prescribedfire.ca 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
 
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire, or open burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 tollfree or *5555 on a cell phone or through the BC Wildfire Service mobile app. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air-quality advisories, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca
 
You can follow the latest wildfire news on:

Contacts:

Fire Information Officer
BC Wildfire Service
Kamloops Fire Centre
250-554-5965
BCWS.KFCInfo@gov.bc.ca		Hayley Parsons
Fire Captain
Lower Nicola Indian Band Fire Department
403-875-1457		Sarah Wilson
Fire Lieutenant
Lower Nicola Indian Band Fire Department
778-809-1856

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