The BC Wildfire Service said that smoke will be visible along Highway 6, Castlegar, Renata, and Edgewood.
An ecosystem restoration burn is now underway on Deer Park Mountain. The BC Wildfire Service said in a media release that the objective is to help restore forest health, address forest issues associated with overly dense tree stands, and reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires in the area.
Kim Wright, the information officer at the Southeast Fire Centre, stated that crews will commence a black line today, initiating a pre-burn of small fuel sections directly adjacent to the burn perimeter.
“Today (Monday), crews will be on-site developing a black line, which is essentially creating a box around the burn. The reason for the black line is to reinforce containment lines, providing space and allowing firefighters to work effectively.”
Wright highlighted that the key goals of this specific burn are to help restore forest health and ensure properly functioning open forest conditions.
“They’re conducting it to address forest health issues often associated with overly dense tree stands, where trees are competing and growing closely together. Additionally, like many of the prescribed burns we conduct, it aims to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires in the area in the future.”
In addition to smoke, community members may also notice helicopters in the area during the main burn operation. However, Wright said that significant smoke and activity on the site won’t be apparent until the main burn begins, which is weather dependant.
“Today (Monday), with the black line, smoke could be noticeable, but it won’t be as noticeable as when they proceed with the main burn unit, which is highly dependent on weather and site conditions. If the black lining today progresses well, and it appears that the site is set for success in achieving objectives, then they can proceed with the main burn unit.”
The BC Wildfire Service stated that the burn will cover 450 hectares over an ignition period of two to four days.