Two prescribed ecosystem restoration burns planned near Windermere and Wilmer could begin as early as Monday, with a third near Wycliffe possibly beginning Tuesday.
BC Wildfire Service is supporting the ?Akisq̓nuk First Nation with a burn covering up to 19 hectares, about seven point five kilometres southeast of Windermere.
BC Wildfire Service is supporting a second burn, involving the Rocky Mountain Resource District and Canadian Wildlife Service, that will cover up to 36.8 hectares roughly one kilometre north of Wilmer.
BC Wildfire Service is supporting a third burn with the ʔaq̓am community in partnership with the City of Cranbrook, that will contain multiple treatment units covering up to 141 hectares. The burn will occur north of Mission Wycliffe Road, roughly nine kilometres north of Cranbrook, and will cover up to 44 hectares in the first stage.
The exact timing will depend on weather and site conditions. Smoke may be highly visible from all three communities, surrounding areas and along Highway 93, Highway 95A and Mission Wycliffe Road.
During the operation traffic controls and temporary closures may be in place along Westside Road near the Wilmer burn in order to ensure crews can safely work. Stopping in the work area or on Westside Road near the burn will not be allowed.
The controlled burns are intended to improve forest health and wildlife habitat, enhance environmental resilience and biodiversity, remove flammable material and reduce the risk and severity of future wildfires.
BC Wildfire Service said the prescribed burns will only proceed when conditions allow for safe burning and proper smoke dispersal.
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