Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests, has released the following statement to mark National Forest Week, Sept. 17-23, 2023:

As extreme drought conditions continue to affect river levels on Vancouver Island, new measures to protect fish have been implemented on the Koksilah and Cowichan rivers.

As extreme drought conditions continue to adversely affect river levels on Vancouver Island, a fish-population protection order will protect salmon and trout in the Tsolum River, temporarily restricting water use for industry and forage crops.

The Province is preparing for extreme fire behaviour due to potential dry lightning and strong winds.

As extreme drought conditions continue to affect river levels in the Thompson Okanagan region, fish population protection orders will protect spawning chinook salmon in the lower Salmon River and Bessette Creek by temporarily restricting water use for forage crops.

Residents and travellers are strongly urged to plan ahead and remain vigilant this B.C. Day long weekend, with much of British Columbia experiencing elevated wildfire risk.

As drought conditions worsen, with unprecedented levels of drought being observed in British Columbia this early in the season, people and businesses are urged to prioritize water conservation.

Residents, travellers and campers are urged to use caution and remain vigilant to prevent fires while enjoying the outdoors over the Canada Day long weekend.

The Province is urging people across British Columbia to conserve water as current forecasts suggest much of the province will experience drought conditions through the summer months.