The BC Wildfire Service plans to burn approximately 150 piles in the Nicola Lake area, northeast of Merritt.

The burns are scheduled to start on Tuesday, Oct. 1, 2019, and will conclude on Oct. 31, 2019. The burns will take place on both sides of North Nicola Lake Road.

The exact timing of the burns will depend on weather, site conditions, venting and timing of snow. They will proceed only if fire behaviour conditions are suitable. Staff from the BC Wildfire Service will carefully prepare, control and monitor the fire at all times. Smoke may be visible from nearby communities, but ignition will proceed only if conditions are suitable and will allow for quick smoke dissipation.

The goal of rehabilitating this area is to reduce threat of erosion, promote re-establishment of vegetation and reduce future wildfire risk. Removal of these burn piles helps reduce the threat of unwanted wildfires.

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

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