The B.C. government is giving the University of Northern British Columbia's Community Development Institute $50,000 to continue research on economic diversification and ways to improve housing stability in rural and northern communities.

Effective at noon PDT on Oct. 2, 2012, open fires will be permitted throughout the Prince George Fire Centre, due to a decreased risk of wildfires.

Although fall has officially arrived, fire conditions in the Prince George Fire Centre remain volatile and new incidents are being reported daily. The Wildfire Management Branch reminds the public to take precautions when enjoying the backcountry.

The BC Coroners Service has confirmed the identity of a man who died as a result of a logging incident near Bella Coola on Sept. 23, 2012.

Effective at noon PDT on Thursday, Sept. 20, all open fires and fireworks will be prohibited throughout the Prince George Fire Centre, with the exception of the Prince George Forest District east of Highway 97 and the Fort Nelson Forest District.

Effective at noon PDT on Monday, Sept. 17, all open fires and fireworks will be prohibited throughout all of the Peace Regional District of the Prince George Fire Centre to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect the public. The ban will remain in place until Oct. 31, 2012, or until the public is otherwise notified.

A multi-storey wood building is closer to becoming a reality, as three qualified teams have been shortlisted to participate in the Request for Proposals (RFP) phase of the competition to design and build the Wood Innovation and Design Centre (WIDC).

Due to decreased fire activity at the Eskal fire, the Prince George Fire Centre has amended the boundaries of the area closure related to that fire.