MERRITT – As part of an ongoing project, the BC Wildfire Service will be supporting the Upper Nicola Band in conducting a cultural burn. The burn will cover a total of 90 hectares, spread out between multiple treatment units on the Douglas Lake IR #3, about 40 kilometres northeast of Merritt.

Key goals of this prescribed burn include:

• returning a natural and necessary process to the land base
• reduce cured grass to allow for traditional food and plants to re-establish
• enhancing ungulate grazing
• provides cross training between BCWS and the Upper Nicola Fire Department
• removing forest fuels to reduce the long-term risk of wildfire
• community protection by reducing fuel loading in urban interface areas

Smoke may be visible from the Upper Nicola Band, Douglas Lake, Nicola Lake and surrounding areas, and to motorists travelling along Highway 5A.

The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as Monday, Mar 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 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:

• the free BC Wildfire Service app, available for Apple (iOS) and Android devices
• Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Mahindra Paul
Fire Chief
Upper Nicola Fire Department
250-280-9677

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