Families in the Haida Gwaii school district will benefit from improved transportation services, thanks to $149,851 in funding under the new provincial Student Transportation Fund.

Performing arts presenters throughout British Columbia are receiving $331,500 in grants to engage professional touring artists and enhance programming activity.

The completion of the Haida Gwaii Hospital and Health Centre - Xaayda Gwaay Ngaaysdll Naay, was officially marked by the visit of Their Royal Highnesses, The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge.

Effective at noon on Sept. 26, 2016, all open fires will once again be permitted throughout the Coastal Fire Centre’s jurisdiction. Tiki torches, burn barrels, fireworks, sky lanterns and binary exploding targets are also permitted. Accumulated rain and cooler temperatures has reduced the wildfire risk in the region.

Effective at noon on Sept. 1, 2016, campfires and Category 3 open fires will once again be permitted throughout the Coastal Fire Centre’s jurisdiction.

Effective August 29, 2016, the allowable annual cut for Western Forest Products’ Tree Farm Licence 39 is 1,416,300 cubic metres.

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.