Ecosystem restoration burn planned for Upper Winlaw area



CASTLEGAR – The BC Wildfire Service is continuing to support the Slocan Integral Forestry Cooperative (SIFCo) in conducting phase two of an ecosystem restoration burn around three kilometres southeast of the town of Winlaw. Phase two of this burn will cover up to 150 hectares.

Smoke may impact the residents closest to the burn area and be visible from Winlaw and surrounding communities, as well as motorists travelling along Highway 6.

The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions but could begin as early as Thursday April 27, 2023. Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal, though smoke may linger in the following days.

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, and
  • reduce forest fuels to decrease the long-term risk of wildfire.

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: http://ow.ly/20Su50Ax89j

Video from the nearby 2021 Ponderosa prescribed burn: https://youtu.be/y0wXnZ0mL3E

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

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Contact:
Fire Information Officer
BC Wildfire Service
Southeast Fire Centre
(778) 364-1236

Stephan Martineau
SIFCo Manager
(250) 226-7012