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.

Initial restoration and upgrading of the existing lookout structure has begun and is expected to be completed mid-October. This restoration has generated significant interest from local community groups and organizations, including the Kingfisher Historical Society.

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 Mara, based on location, accessibility, community use and historical significance.

Forest fire lookouts have been a part of the province's history for decades and 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:

Shuswap MLA George Abbott -

"The restoration of the Mara forest fire lookout is creating local jobs, and once it is complete, will further enhance tourism opportunities in the Shuswap."

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