Prescribed burn planned for Spion Kop area



LAKE COUNTRY – The BC Wildfire Service will be supporting the Okanagan Shuswap Natural Resource District and the District of Lake Country in conducting a prescribed burn. This is part of a multi-year wildfire risk reduction project covering a total of 265 hectares. The goal for this spring is to burn 30 hectares or as conditions allow; with the remainder being burnt in subsequent seasons/years. This burn is located about six kilometre north of Lake Country centre in the Spion Kop area. Fuel treatments, which includes pile burning, have previously been conducted in the area to thin the forest density, reduce ladder fuels and remove excess fuels from the forest.

Key goals of this prescribed burn include:

  • helping to restore forest health and a properly functioning ecosystem
  • returning a natural and necessary process to the land base
  • create safer conditions for first responders
  • removing forest fuels to reduce the long-term risk of wildfire

Smoke may be visible from Lake Country, Vernon, Kelowna and surrounding areas, and to motorists travelling along Highway 97.

The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as Friday, March 20. Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days.

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

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Contact:

District of Lake Country
Lake Country Fire Department
Fire Administration Office
250 766-2327

Fire Information Officer
BC Wildfire Service
Kamloops Fire Centre
250-554-5965
BCWS.KFCInfo@gov.bc.ca

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