The Ministry of Transportation and Transit continues leading efforts to safely reopen Bamfield Main Road in co-operation with Mosaic Forest Management, following recent wildfire impacts.

The ministry is aiming to reopen the road by the end of October 2025.

Crews are working on the 1.5-kilometre section between kilometre 8 and 9.5, where unstable slopes, dangerous trees and debris flow risks remain. Work includes clearing debris, removing unsafe trees and stabilizing slopes to protect crews and the travelling public. The terrain is unpredictable, similar to conditions after the Cameron Bluffs wildfire on Highway 4.

A geotechnical assessment has been completed to identify hazard risks. Based on these findings, the ministry is developing an operating guideline, similar to the approach at Cameron Lake, that will establish rain and wind thresholds for increased patrols and potential pre-emptive closures.

Assessments of dangerous trees are ongoing and the ministry is co-ordinating tree falling and related utility work. To support the new operating guidelines, a weather station and closure gates will be installed in the coming weeks. Signage and barrier needs are also being reviewed through the most significantly affected area.

Public access to the closed section remains restricted. Concrete barriers are in place, and electronic signs alert drivers ahead of these closure points:

• north end: Bamfield Main at the Cell Spot (kilometre 7); and
• south end: Bamfield Main at Museum Forest Service Road (kilometre 10).

Drivers must continue using the Youbou detour. The ministry reminds drivers this is an industrial road with variable surface conditions. Exercise caution, adjust speeds and avoid travel at night if unfamiliar with the route.

Once reopened, Bamfield Main Road will remain subject to temporary closures during periods of heavy rain or strong winds.