A 32-hectare prescribed burn in the Gibbs Creek area near Grand Forks, to reduce ecosystem and reduce wildfire risk, may begin as early as Sunday, May 27, weather permitting.

Smoke may be visible from Grand Forks, Highway 3 and surrounding communities. Trained BC Wildfire Service personnel will carefully monitor the fire at all times.

The objective of the prescribed burn is to reduce forest fuels and rejuvenate the shrub, herb and grass layer. This will enhance the habitats for mule deer, white-tailed deer and elk, improve overall biodiversity in the area and promote a climate-resilient stand structure. The overall reduction in fuel loads (accumulations of flammable material, such as wood debris) will also decrease the risk of catastrophic wildfires in this area.

The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions. Burning will only proceed if conditions are suitable, and allow for low- to moderate-intensity fire, and quick smoke dissipation. All prescribed burns must comply with the Environmental Management Act, and the open burning smoke control regulation. This helps minimize the amount of smoke generated.

Fire is a normal and natural process in many of British Columbia’s ecosystems. The BC Wildfire Service works regularly with land managers to undertake fuel-management activities (including the use of prescribed burns), to help reduce the severity of future wildfires and related threats to communities.

To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, 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: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo 
• On Facebook: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Learn More:

A factsheet about prescribed burns and ecosystem restoration burns is available online at: http://ow.ly/E8Ue30br7OY