Ecosystem restoration burn planned for Deer Park Mountain



CASTLEGAR – The BC Wildfire Service will be supporting the Fish and Wildlife Compensation Program section of the Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship in conducting an ecosystem restoration burn within one kilometre of Deer Park. The exact timing will depend on weather and site conditions, but could start as early as Monday, March 18, 2024.

This prescribed burn will cover up to 450 hectares over an ignition period of two to four days. Smoke may impact the residents close to the burn area and be visible from Deer Park, Renata, Castlegar and Edgewood. Smoke may also be visible to motorists travelling along Highway 6.

Rotary wing resources will be supporting ignition operations and residents can expect to see helicopters in the area during main burn operations.

Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable to achieve objectives and allow for smoke dispersal, though smoke may linger in the following days, particularly the morning after burn operations. Despite all precautions to manage it, unintended smoke impacts are possible after any burn.

Key goals of this prescribed burn include:

  • Help restore forest health and properly functioning open forest conditions
  • Address forest health issues associated with overly dense tree stands
  • Reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires in the area

Fire is a normal and natural process in many of B.C.’s ecosystems. The BC Wildfire Service works regularly with land managers to undertake fuel management activities, including the use of prescribed burns, to help achieve land management objectives, reduce the severity of future wildfires and increase ecosystem and wildfire resilience. Learn more about prescribed burning online: prescribedfire.ca.

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone. For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air-quality advisories, visit: bcwildfire.ca.

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Contact:

Fire Information Officer
Southeast Fire Centre
BC Wildfire Service
250 318-7715

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