Ecosystem restoration burn planned for Kettle River area



CASTLEGAR – The BC Wildfire Service is continuing the partnership with the Osoyoos Indian Band and Penticton Indian Band to support the Kootenay Boundary Region on an ecosystem restoration burn in the Kettle River area, located about three kilometres northwest of the community of Rock Creek.

This prescribed burn will cover up to 105 hectares and smoke may be visible from Rock Creek, surrounding areas, and to motorists travelling along Highway 3 and 33. Rotary wing resources will be supporting ignition operations, residents can expect to see helicopters in the area during the burn.

The exact timing will depend on weather and site conditions but could start as early as Tuesday, April 2, 2024. 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 initial operations. Despite all precautions to manage smoke, unintended impacts are possible.

Key goals of this prescribed burn include:

  • Enhancing wildlife habitat
  • Supporting water quality objectives
  • Addressing forest health issues associated with overly dense tree stands
  • Reducing 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. To learn more about Cultural Fire and Prescribed Burning, visit: 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, 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