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.

Initial restoration and upgrading of the existing lookout structure has begun and is expected to be completed mid-October. The Houston Hikers Society is also a partner in restoring the lookout and installing new signs.

The restoration is part of a provincewide project to restore five forest fire lookouts near Terrace, Houston, Enderby, Kaslo and Boston Bar. In addition, six lookouts are being inspected and assessed for possible restoration next year.

Ministry staff reviewed all restoration opportunities and strategically chose the five projects, including Owen Hill, based on location, accessibility, community use and historical significance.

Forest fire lookouts have been a part of the province's history for decades. The lookouts have played an instrumental role in the early detection of wildfires until they were replaced by new technology, improved public reporting and aerial detection. More recently, the lookouts have become important recreational assets for residents and tourists.

Quote:

MLA for Nechako Lakes John Rustad -

"The restoration of the Owen Hill forest fire lookout is creating local employment opportunities and once it is complete will bring added tourism and recreation opportunities to the region."

Quick Facts:

• There are currently 320 forest fire lookouts locations in British Columbia. Of those, 20 are considered active and required by the Wildfire Management Branch.

• Lookouts offer incredible world-class vistas and views and may also be used as weather stations and communication sites.

• Lookouts provide recreation/tourism opportunities year round with hiking and ATV use during the summer and cross country and snowmobile use in the winter.

Learn More:

Photos of lookouts and restorations: http://www.flickr.com/photos/bcgovphotos/sets/72157631613813520/

BC Forest Service Centenary Society: http://www.bcfs100.ca/bscripts/index.asp

Recreation Sites and Trails BC: http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/default.aspx

Learn about heritage in B.C.: http://www.for.gov.bc.ca/heritage/

Learn about wildfire history in B.C.: http://bcwildfire.ca/

Contact:

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261