PARKSVILLE – The Harrison Lake area holds significant cultural, spiritual and ecological significance to many local First Nations, including the Sts’ailes, Leq’a:mel, Sq’ewlets and other Sto:lo communities, that have stewarded these lands since time immemorial. The area is also cherished by local recreators, tour operators and visitors from afar.

There has been a significant increase in visitors in recent years, creating new challenges for the ecosystem and surrounding communities. In 2023, vehicle traffic on the Sts’ailes (West Harrison) Forest Service Road was approximately 42 per cent higher than what it was in 2012, with more than 78,800 people visiting the area. To promote safe and respectful use of this area BC Wildfire Service, in partnership with local First Nations and Chilliwack Natural Resource District, will be elevating their presence in the area this season. The goals are twofold: reduce human-caused wildfires and minimize negative impacts to cultural, environmental and wildlife values.

On the Canada Day long weekend, BC Wildfire Service staff and Natural Resource Officers will activate an Information Kiosk at the start of the Chehalis Forest Service Road and the Sts’ailes Forest Service Road (Morris Valley Highway) sharing messages about safe use of open fire, campfire prohibitions, how to report suspected illegal activities, safe travel and respectful behavior. If this pilot program is successful, the initiative will continue for the remaining 2024 long weekends of the summer.

Local First Nations Guardians and BC Wildfire Service Fire Wardens will increase patrols in the Harrison Lake area for prevention, detection and reporting of wildfires and illegal activities. The Conservation Officer Service will also be deployed for environmental compliance and enforcement, shared stewardship and public safety.

Contact:
Kimberly Kelly
Community Engagement Specialist
BC Wildfire Service Coastal Fire Centre
250-927-1847
Kimberly.kelly@gov.bc.ca

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