A $1-million investment will support British Columbia's first-ever provincially led, full-scale earthquake response exercise that will test elements of the new B.C. Earthquake Immediate Response Plan.

The large column of smoke visible from Nelson and surrounding areas this afternoon is the result of successful burn out operations on the Sitkum Creek wildfire.

With 159 wildfires burning throughout B.C., down from 166 on Thursday and 197 one week ago, the Province continues to caution all British Columbians to be diligent with fire safety and to report all wildfires to authorities.

The campfire ban remains in effect throughout the Prince George Fire centre. This does not apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes.

The Province is taking action to preserve the unique ecosystems of the Ancient Forest, home to some of the oldest trees in the country, and is calling for public input into the planning process, Minister of Jobs,Tourism and Skills Training Shirley Bond announced today. Bond was speaking on behalf of Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson.

People living in Nelson and surrounding areas will notice increased smoke on the Sitkum Creek Wildfire as a result of another proactive burn out operation.

Ministry of Environment staff held a public meeting for Shawnigan Lake residents to discuss the latest test results taken from the Cobble Hill Holdings (also known as South Island Aggregates) site on Stebbings Road.