The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is planning to spark an ecosystem restoration burn in the Kootenay River Ranch area, about eight kilometres south of Canal Flats.
The exact timing of the burn will depend on the weather and site conditions, but work could start on Thursday, Apr. 11.
“Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable to achieve objectives and allow for smoke dispersal, though smoke may linger in the following days, particularly the morning after burn operations,” said BC Wildfire Service officials.
“Despite all precautions to manage it, unintended smoke impacts are possible after any burn.”
BC Wildfire Service officials said the prescribed burn is expected to cover up to 80 hectares with several goals in mind:
- Enhancing wildlife habitat.
- Support water quality objectives.
- Addressing forest health issues associated with overly dense trees.
- Reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires.
“Fire is a normal and natural process in many of B.C.’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,” said BC Wildfire officials.
You may be able to see smoke from Canal Flats, Fort Steele, Highway 93/95 and surrounding areas.
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