To protect sensitive grasslands and riparian ecosystems in the Thompson Rivers Natural Resource District, the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations is introducing measures to restrict motorized recreational use in the Lac du Bois/Batchelor and Lower Noble Creek areas.

Given the marked increase in wildfire activity in the Okanagan Valley and elsewhere in the province over the past week, the BC Wildfire Service is again urging the public to be extremely cautious with any allowed fire use.

Hot and dry weather is in the forecast throughout the province this weekend, along with strong, gusty winds. The BC Wildfire Service is preparing for increased wildfire activity and urges the public to be cautious with any activities in the backcountry.

The public is reminded that, despite recent rainfall, Category 2 and Category 3 open burning prohibitions remain in place throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre.

People in Naramata and surrounding areas may see smoke this morning from a small training burn occurring about five kilometres southeast of Naramata, along the Arawana Forest Service Road.

Effective at noon on June 16, 2016, the Kamloops Fire Centre will be expanding its current Category 2 and Category 3 open burning prohibitions to include a ban on the use of binary exploding targets.

The BC Wildfire Service is sending personnel to Alberta and Ontario to aid in fire response efforts.

Effective at noon on May 15, 2016, Category 2 and Category 3 open fires will be prohibited throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect the public.

Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Minister Steve Thomson is urging all British Columbians to do their part this year to help prevent wildfires and reduce fire risks, including using FireSmart principles to help protect homes and communities.