Wildfire Risk Reduction project planned for Sisters Creek Recreation Area



QUESNEL- BC Wildfire Service and the B.C. Ministry of Forests, operating within the Quesnel Natural Resource District, will be conducting wildfire risk reduction treatments and pile burning activities at Sisters Creek Recreation Area in the Community of Kersley. The treatment area is located approximately 20 kilometers south of Quesnel and two kilometers west of Highway 97.

Completing this project will help reduce the wildfire hazard around Kersley as well as help restore the grown-in stands to a more natural/desirable state. This project will include approximately eight hectares of manual hand treatment on both sides of roads and trails within the Sisters Creek Recreation Area. The scope of the work involves removing the surface and ladder fuels, as well as pruning and thinning out the forest to create tree crown separation and reduce the risk of a high-intensity crown fires. Crews of five to twelve people will be working on both sides of the road and into the forested area. Please use caution and pay attention to signage when recreating on trail and road networks within this area.

Wildfire risk reduction activities are expected to start November 15, 2024 eventually transitioning to pile burning and fuel clean up. Burning could begin on any day that the venting forecast is fair until March 20, 2025. Ignitions and burning will only proceed if weather and site conditions are suitable and allow smoke to dissipate.

Smoke and flames may be visible from Kersley, Highway 97, and surrounding areas.

The Ministry of Forests has completed several wildfire risk reduction projects within the resource district, including areas around Nazko, Tibbles Road, Marsh Road, and Barkerville.

Fire is a 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 reduce the severity of future wildfires and related threats to communities.

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

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Contact:

Vincent Luu, RPF

Land and Resource Specialist

Quesnel Natural Resource District

Ministry of Forests

Land.Resources.DQU@gov.bc.ca,

250-992-4400

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