First Nation forestry businesses throughout British Columbia will continue to receive the technical support they need to succeed, thanks to an additional $400,000 provided by the government of B.C.

In recognition of the BC Forest Service's centennial birthday, the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, is honouring B.C.'s wildfire fighting history and increasing local recreation opportunities by restoring the Mara forest fire lookout, announced Shuswap MLA George Abbott.

In recognition of the BC Forest Service's centennial birthday, the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, is honouring B.C.'s wildfire fighting history and increasing local recreation opportunities by restoring the Owen Hill forest fire lookout, announced MLA for Nechako Lakes John Rustad.

Effective at noon on Tuesday, Sept. 25, 2012, an open fire prohibition will be lifted for most of the Northwest Fire Centre, with the exception of the Morice, Bulkley and Lakes timber supply areas.

Although fall has officially arrived, fire conditions in the Prince George Fire Centre remain volatile and new incidents are being reported daily. The Wildfire Management Branch reminds the public to take precautions when enjoying the backcountry.

The B.C. Cattlemen's Association has received another boost for its program to maintain and restore riparian ecosystems, thanks to a $30,000 grant from the B.C. government.

In advance of National Forest Week, Sept. 23-29, Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations Minister Steve Thomson released the following statement:

Smoky skies in the B.C. Interior are the result of several large forest fires, including the Entiako Lake fire in the northeast corner of Tweedsmuir Park. The smoke from these fires has drifted down the coast to Bella Coola, east to Prince George and as far south as Kamloops.

New harvest levels for Haida Gwaii have been determined by B.C.'s deputy chief forester Jim Sutherland.