Prescribed burn planned for the Peterson Creek Nature Park



KAMLOOPS – The City of Kamloops with support from the BC Wildfire Service and Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc will be conducting a prescribed burn in the Peterson Creek Nature Park area within city limits. While the overall project area covers approximately 17 hectares, the prescribed burn anticipated for this spring will only cover six of the 17 hectares.

Smoke may be visible from Kamloops and surrounding areas, and to motorists travelling along Highways 1, 5 and 5A.

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

Key goals of this prescribed burn include:

  • helping to restore forest health and a properly functioning ecosystem
  • removing and reducing build-up of overgrown sagebrush in the area
  • removing the growth of invasive species in the area
  • providing a cross training opportunity and encouraging interagency cooperation
  • removing grassland fuels to reduce the long-term risk of wildfire

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:

Contact:
Kathleen Cahoon
FireSmart Liaison
City of Kamloops
250-318-0361
firesmart@kamloops.ca

BC Wildfire Service
Fire Information Officer
Kamloops Fire Centre
250-554-5965

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