The BC Wildfire Service is planning to conduct a series of controlled open burns north of Horse Lake to reduce wildfire threats around the Imperial Ranchettes neighbourhood and in the 100 Mile House Community Forest.

Trained fire crews will begin burning piles of woody debris at the end of Gary Road (identified as Gray Road in the previous release) on March 11, 2019. This work will continue periodically until about June 30, 2019.

This pile burning will only proceed if weather conditions are favourable. Wind speed, wind direction, venting and site conditions will all be considered prior to ignition to help prevent smoke accumulating in the community.

Burning these piles is part of an ongoing fuel management project under the direction of the BC Wildfire Service. The primary goal is to reduce wildfire risks through the prescribed thinning or spacing of trees and the removal of surface fuels that could burn in the event of a wildfire.

Wood debris and forest fuels collected during this thinning process must be disposed of responsibly and safely. This is typically done by burning the material in piles no larger than two metres by three metres. The piles will be burned in groups of two to four piles at a time and will be strategically placed to minimize impacts on neighbouring trees.

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: www.bcwildfire.ca

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