Prescribed burn planned for Xeni Gwet’in Rodeo Grounds



XENI GWET’IN – The BC Wildfire Service is supporting Xeni Gwet’in First Nation with a prescribed burn of approximately 4 hectares at the Xeni Gwet’in Rodeo Grounds within the Declared Title Area.

Burning may start as early as Wednesday, March 12, 2025, and continue periodically until Monday, March 17, 2025. Burning will be dependent on weather, site and venting conditions to allow for quick smoke dissipation. Smoke and flames will be visible from Xeni Gwet’in and surrounding residences, with firefighters monitoring the fire activity at all times.

The goal of this prescribed burn is to reduce wildfire risk by eliminating fuels. Prescribed and cultural fire is often used to help protect communities and infrastructure in the wildland-urban interface, where developed areas border on forests or grasslands. The removal of fine fuels helps slow the spread of wildfires and is an opportunity for BC Wildfire Service staff and Xeni Gwet’in to collaborate on wildfire prevention efforts.

Fire has been used by Indigenous Peoples for millennia to manage flora and fauna and is continued through the communities cultural fire program. Projects like this are renewing past traditions and practices and is an opportunity for BC Wildfire Service staff to work with the community of Xeni Gwet’in.

Learn more about prescribed burning online at prescribedfire.ca or at BC Wildfire Service cultural and prescribed fire.

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 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.

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Contact:

Fire Information Officer
Cariboo Fire Centre
BC Wildfire Service
778 799-2100
BCWS.CaFCInformationOfficer@gov.bc.ca

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