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.

The Valemount Glacier Destination Resort – a potential year-round skiing and alpine resort worth $175 million – has taken another step forward with the B.C. government’s approval of the master plan.

Effective at noon on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2016, Category 2 open fires will be prohibited throughout the Prince George Fire Centre to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect public safety.

The Province has issued a First Nations woodland licence to Nee Tahi Buhn Indian Band, enhancing employment and economic opportunities in the region.

As a result of prolonged dry conditions along the coast, the Province is urging water users in the Skeena and Nass regions to voluntary reduce water use by 30%.

The B.C. government is distributing over $464,000 in new grants to help small communities develop projects to diversify and strengthen their economies.

The Province has issued a First Nations woodland licence to Lake Babine Nation, enhancing employment and economic opportunities in the region.

BC Wildfire Service crews are continuing suppression efforts on a wildfire burning in the Homathko River-Tatlayoko Protected Area, about 220 kilometres southwest of Williams Lake.

The Province has strengthened regulations to ensure that hunters do not use flying drones to help them track wildlife, Minister of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Steve Thomson announced.