Residents of Kelowna and surrounding communities may see smoke from a series of controlled fires over the next month, as a contractor working for the Okanagan Shuswap District collects and burns waste wood and other forest fuels in the Gillard Creek area.

The deadline for those wishing to submit an expression of interest to manage the historic Keremeos Grist Mill has been extended for at least two more weeks.

Okanagan residents are encouraged to come and share their views on two Wildlife Management Area proposals for their region at two open houses in early November.

Effective at 12 noon on Monday, Oct. 22, 2012, all open fires will be permitted within the Kamloops Fire Centre, due to a decreased risk of wildfires.

Prescribed burns are planned in the Ward Creek, Becher's Prairie, and Farwell Canyon area west of Williams Lake between now and Nov. 16, 2012, weather conditions permitting.

Effective today, Oct. 15, 2012, campfires and all open fires will be permitted in the Clearwater and Salmon Arm fire zones due to a decreased risk of wildfires.

A small urban forest on the outskirts of Squamish, soon to be known as the BC Forest Service Centenary Grove, will commemorate the centennial birthday of the BC Forest Service and the exemplary work of the men and women of the Forest Service family.

Following on a commitment to crack down on invasive species, such as the snakehead fish, the B.C. government has released a series of policy intentions for public comment.