Wildfire Management Branch and BC Timber Sales personnel are planning to conduct a prescribed burn at 12 Mile Creek, about 17 kilometres northwest of Kaslo next to Highway 31A.

The burn project will take place between April 9 and April 30, weather conditions permitting.

This controlled burn will cover about 5.5 hectares and smoke will be visible from Kaslo, Highway 31A and surrounding areas. Smoke may be present for several days, as fires within the burn control lines are extinguished. Wildfire Management Branch fire crews will monitor the area at all times.

Fire is a natural, normal process in many ecosystems. It can be beneficial in maintaining a healthy forest and a diversity of plant and animal life. Through evolution and exposure to wildfires, many plants and animals have adapted to fire and actually depend on it to regenerate. Fire can also discourage insect infestations and help fire-adapted plant species reproduce.

The goal of this burn is to mimic naturally occurring ground fires and reduce the amount of dead and combustible material (fuel load) at 12 Mile Creek, which will improve the area’s fire resiliency and decrease the risk of catastrophic wildfires. This area will be prepared for replanting after the burn project has been completed.

To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cellphone.

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, visit: http://www.bcwildfire.ca

You can also follow the latest wildfire news on:

• Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
• Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Media Contacts:

Jordan Turner
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Southeast Fire Centre
250 365-4014