Newsroom - Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2011-03-30://1 2013-05-17T20:19:37Z Movable Type Enterprise 4.38 Smoke from planned fires may be visible near Revelstoke tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.6006 2013-05-17T20:00:00Z 2013-05-17T20:19:37Z Smoke and flames from the planned burning of waste wood may be visible near Revelstoke from May 20 to June 3. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ REVELSTOKE - Smoke and flames from the planned burning of waste wood may be visible near Revelstoke from May 20 to June 3.

The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations plans to burn slash piles accumulated last spring during a fuel management project.

The burning will be compliant with air-quality venting regulations and will proceed only if weather conditions are favourable for the quick dissipation of smoke. Wind speed, direction, venting and burning conditions will all be considered prior to ignition to minimize the amount of smoke created.

Smoke and flames may be visible from locations near the Mount Macpherson nordic ski area along Highway 23. Trained wildfire crews and equipment will be on site and the fires will be monitored at all times.

The goal of this fuel management project is to reduce forest fuels (e.g., waste wood, brush, accumulations of needles) in interface areas to reduce the risk of catastrophic wildfires.

This area also was chosen to give Columbia Shuswap Regional District residents an opportunity to view a typical FireSmart forest and learn how to make modifications to their own properties to minimize wildfire threats.

Quick Facts:

  • The burn scars will be cleaned up and any remaining wood material will be scattered to reduce their visual impact.
  • The fuel management project last spring removed danger trees, thinned stands, cleared away fuel on the forest floor, removed tree limbs up to two metres from the ground ("ladder" fuels) and removed unhealthy or suppressed trees.
  • A factsheet about wildfire prevention, including information about Community Wildfire Protection Plans, is available online at: http://ow.ly/jWvPn
  • To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on your cellphone.

Media Contact:

Karlie Shaughnessy
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Southeast Fire Centre
250 365-4014


]]> Public use restrictions on grasslands, grazing leases tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.6004 2013-05-15T20:00:00Z 2013-05-15T21:04:52Z In advance of the May long weekend, the public is reminded about restricted recreational use in the Tunkwa-Duffy area and on grazing leases in the Kamloops area. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ KAMLOOPS - In advance of the May long weekend, the public is reminded about restricted recreational use in the Tunkwa-Duffy area and on grazing leases in the Kamloops area.

Tunkwa, Six Mile and Cherry Creek grassland ecosystems remain closed year-round to off-road vehicles and to camping.

The closure came into effect April 13, 2012, to protect sensitive grasslands and riparian ecosystems in the Thompson Rivers District. The closure is authorized under Section 58 of the Forest and Range Practices Act.

In addition, the Logan Lake ski trails remain closed to vehicles.

Recreational users also should be aware of restrictions to public use on grazing leases. Motorized vehicle and bicycle access off the main roads of grazing leases is restricted to signed, designated trails only.

The Noble and Barnhartvale grazing leases are of particular concern with increased motorbike and all-terrain vehicle use, large amounts of garbage being left behind and damage to the environment. Under the Trespass Act, unauthorized use may result in a maximum penalty of $2,000 or six months in jail.

Camping is prohibited on grazing leases. The Province encourages the public to use designated camping facilities. The Thompson Rivers District has many campsites, both public and private, offering a range of amenities and services.

These closures and restrictions are in place to prevent further environmental damage, such as soil disturbance and introduction of invasive weed species.

Where grasslands are open to vehicle access, users are reminded to practise responsible riding and recreation to ensure these areas remain popular tourist destinations for future generations.

Learn More:

Tunkwa-Duffy area closure information and maps: http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/about/tunkwa-duffy-orv-riding.aspx

To find a recreation site near you: http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca

Contact:

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261

]]> Enforcement officers on patrol over May long weekend tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.6003 2013-05-15T18:00:00Z 2013-05-15T20:56:26Z British Columbia's natural resource officers, park rangers and conservation officers will be busy over the Victoria Day long weekend helping residents and visitors enjoy a safe and peaceful holiday. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - British Columbia's natural resource officers, park rangers and conservation officers will be busy over the Victoria Day long weekend helping residents and visitors enjoy a safe and peaceful holiday.

Provincial officials step up their patrols in May every year, especially on holiday long weekends.

  • Natural resource officers, conservation officers and the RCMP will be patrolling Crown land, waterways and recreation sites to ensure public safety and protect the environment. Natural resource officers also enforce the forest recreation regulation.
  • Park rangers will be patrolling BC Parks and enforcing the park, conservancy and recreation area regulation to enhance public safety and protect sensitive ecosystems.
  • Conservation officers will be checking permits to protect public safety and enforcing environment, fish and wildlife regulations. They also will be patrolling recreation sites.

Most provincial parks and recreation sites are open for the May long weekend. Up-to-date information is available on the BC Parks website and the Recreation Sites and Trails BC website.

BC Parks: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/

Recreation Sites and Trails BC: http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/

Here is some important information to bear in mind over the long weekend:

Camping

  • Many campgrounds have specified rules and guidelines. Visitors are asked to comply with the posted rules.
  • Gates in provincial parks and some recreation sites are closed at 11 p.m., unless otherwise stated. Only registered campers are allowed in campsites after 11 p.m.
  • Excessive noise is not permitted. Please remember that sound can travel far in the open air, especially music and loud talking.
  • Liquor consumption is prohibited in parks, with the exception of your own campsite.
  • Barbecues must be used on the ground unless barbecue attachments are provided on picnic tables.
  • To avoid problems with bears, lock your food in your vehicle at night. Use the garbage containers that are provided and maintain a clean campsite. Never feed or approach bears.
  • Designated swimming areas within marker buoys are intended to protect swimmers. All watercraft and waterskiers must stay outside the markers. Lifeguards are not on duty in BC Parks or recreation sites.
  • Visitors can use trails to travel safely through the most interesting and beautiful parts of BC Parks or recreation sites, without damaging sensitive and unique plant and wildlife habitat. Please stay on the trails.

Campfire safety

  • Always check the Wildfire Management Branch website - www.bcwildfire.ca - before heading into the backcountry to find out if any open burning prohibitions are in effect.
  • If campfires are allowed in your area, bring a shovel or keep at least eight litres of water nearby to properly extinguish your campfire.
  • Make sure the campfire is completely extinguished and the ashes are cold to the touch before you leave it unattended for any period of time. Ensure that cigarette butts are properly extinguished in an ashtray and are not tossed away carelessly.
  • Campfires cannot be larger than 0.5 metres in height and 0.5 metres in diameter (roughly 11/2 feet by 11/2 feet).
  • You must maintain a one-metre fireguard around the campfire. This is a fuel-free area where all flammable materials (grass, kindling, etc.) have been removed.
  • You may be held accountable for damages and fire suppression costs if your negligence results in a wildfire.
  • Members of the public can report wildfires or unattended campfires by calling *5555 on a cellphone or by calling 1 800 663-5555 toll-free.

Off-road vehicles

  • Respect the environment when riding off-road vehicles. Use trails designated for motorized use.
  • Most provincial parks are closed to off-road vehicle use unless posted as open.
  • Operators of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) are reminded that these vehicles must be insured while being driven on forest service roads.
  • Keep vehicles out of sensitive sites that are easily damaged, such as wetlands, grasslands, alpine areas and subalpine environments.
  • Failure to comply with regulations could result in a fine of $575 or (in more serious cases involving damage) up to $100,000 and a year in jail.

Fishing

  • Make sure you have a valid angling licence (April 1, 2013 to March 31, 2014) and are aware of angling regulations for the waters in your area, including gear and bait restrictions.
  • If you are operating a small vessel, ensure that you have your operator's licence with you and be aware of safety regulations for operating small vessels.

Pets must be kept on a leash at all times within provincial parks and in some recreation sites. Pets are not allowed inside park buildings.

The B.C. Wildlife Federation offers a reward up to $2,000 for information leading to the conviction of anyone who breaks wildlife laws, vandalizes private property or contravenes other property laws.

Report suspicious activities and environmental damage to the Conservation Officer Service's toll-free, 24-hour Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at 1 877 952-RAPP (7277), or call *7277 from your cellphone.

More information:

BC Parks: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/

Discover Camping: www.discovercamping.ca

Recreation Sites and Trails BC: http://www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca/

Wildfire Management Branch: http://bcwildfire.ca/

Fire restrictions and bans: http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/Bans.asp

Hunting and fishing regulations: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/

Media Contacts:

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261

Aly Couch
Provincial Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 312-3052

Media Relations
Ministry of Environment
250 953-3834

]]> Use caution around Nicola Lake and Nicola River tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.6002 2013-05-15T17:00:00Z 2013-05-15T18:28:23Z The public is asked to exercise caution, and prepare for localized flooding as water levels in Nicola Lake, the Nicola River and surrounding streams increase due to rapid snowmelt and recent high temperatures. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ MERRITT - The public is asked to exercise caution, and prepare for localized flooding as water levels in Nicola Lake, the Nicola River and surrounding streams increase due to rapid snowmelt and recent high temperatures.

The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations operates Nicola Lake dam and regulates the water levels on Nicola Lake. To create space in Nicola Lake from snowmelt and precipitation, the ministry has been releasing higher than normal rates of water from Nicola Lake dam into the Nicola River, which flows through Merritt and Lower Nicola.

Because inflows to Nicola Lake are higher than the controlled outflows, Nicola Lake is expected to keep rising for the next seven to 10 days. Flows in Nicola River are expected to rise and remain high for at least two to three weeks.

Residents next to the lake should expect some shoreline flooding. The public is advised to prepare for possible flooding of low-lying areas by moving equipment and other assets from these areas to higher ground, where possible.

During periods of high flow, river banks may be unstable and more prone to sudden collapse. The public is advised to stay well away from the banks of fast flowing streams and flooded areas or bridges. Young children and pets can be at particular risk during this period.

Although the ministry is actively managing Nicola Lake Dam to minimize negative impacts both upstream and downstream of the dam, residents should be aware that unforeseen adverse weather conditions may affect water levels and flow forecasts, and result in some degree of flooding along the length of the river.

For more information on flood prevention and flood response, visit: http://embc.gov.bc.ca/em/floods/preparedness.html

Contact:

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261

]]> Fire prohibitions in Kamloops Fire Centre start May 15 tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5993 2013-05-13T18:35:00Z 2013-05-13T20:52:06Z Effective at noon on Wednesday, May 15, 2013, the size of open fires will be restricted in most of the Kamloops Fire Centre to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect the public. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/

This prohibition applies to all areas of the Kamloops Fire Centre except the Clearwater and Salmon Arm fire zones.

The Clearwater Fire Zone and the Salmon Arm Fire Zone will become subject to this prohibition on June 15, 2013, when all open burning will be prohibited throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre.

Since April 1, Kamloops Fire Centre crews have responded to 43 human-caused wildfires, the largest of which has grown to about 1,400 hectares in size. Many of these fires resulted from poorly planned open burning.

Anyone conducting Category 2 or 3 fires outside of those two zones must extinguish any such fires by noon on May 15. This prohibition will remain in effect until Oct. 15, 2013 or until further notice.

A map of the affected areas is available online at: http://ow.ly/kewIE

Specifically, prohibited activities include:

  • The burning of any waste, slash or other materials (piled or unpiled).
  • The burning of more than one open fire of any size at the same time.
  • The burning of recreational and ceremonial fires that exceed the size specified for campfires (0.5 m x 0.5 m).
  • Stubble or grass fires of any size over any area.
  • The use of fireworks, sky lanterns or burning barrels of any size or description.

This prohibition does not ban campfires that are a half-metre high by a half-metre wide (or smaller) and does not apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes.

This prohibition covers all BC Parks, Crown lands and private lands, but it does not apply within the boundaries of a local government that has forest fire prevention bylaws in place and is serviced by a fire department. Before lighting any fire, residents should check with local civic authorities regarding any current prohibitions.

The Kamloops Fire Centre stretches from the northern border of Wells Gray Park near Blue River to the U.S. border to the south, and from the Bridge River Glacier west of Gold Bridge to the Monashee Mountains east of Lumby.

For information about open burning and for more tips on making responsible burning decisions, please download one of the guides to open burning at: http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/Bans.asp

Anyone found in contravention of an open fire prohibition may be issued a ticket for $345 or, if convicted in court, be fined up to $100,000 and sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person may be subject to a penalty of up to $10,000 and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

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

For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website: www.bcwildfire.ca

You can follow the latest wildfire news -

On Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo

On Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Media Contact:

Kayla Pepper
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Kamloops Fire Centre
250 554-5530
Kayla.Pepper@gov.bc.ca

]]> Spring run-off affects access to three recreation sites tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5988 2013-05-10T18:00:00Z 2013-05-10T22:31:31Z Recreational users are advised that effective immediately access to three local recreation sites has been affected due to recent spring run-off. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VANDERHOOF - Recreational users are advised that effective immediately access to three local recreation sites has been affected due to recent spring run-off.

In the Vanderhoof area, Grizzly Lake and Woodcock Lake recreation sites, located at 23 km and 25 km on Grizzly Forest Service Road, are closed until further notice due to overly saturated access roads, making both unusable.

In the Fort St. James area, Great Beaver Lake Recreation Site, located at 444 km on Teardrop Forest Service Road, is accessible only from the west (Fort St. James) due to a washout at 450 km. Access from Prince George is not available at this time.

Recreational users, particularly users pulling large trailers, should be aware that turnaround space may be limited at the closure locations.

There are numerous recreation sites in these areas where access has not been affected, including Graveyard Lake and Tory Lake recreation sites in the vicinity of the Grizzly and Cobb forest service roads and Teardrop Lake and Tureen Lake recreation sites on the Prince George side of the washout on Teardrop Lake Forest Service Road.

For more information and updates, call 250 567-6416 or check the Recreation Sites and Trails BC website at: www.sitesandtrailsbc.ca

Contact:

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261

]]> B.C. crews head to Alberta to assist with prescribed burns tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5985 2013-05-09T22:45:00Z 2013-05-09T23:23:39Z The Wildfire Management Branch is sending 13 personnel to Alberta to assist Parks Canada in carrying out prescribed burns. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ KAMLOOPS - The Wildfire Management Branch is sending 13 personnel to Alberta to assist Parks Canada in carrying out prescribed burns.

Four, three-person initial attack crews and one agency representative are departing today for Waterton and Banff, Alberta.

The request for assistance was made through the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, which co-ordinates the mutual sharing of firefighting resources between B.C. and other jurisdictions.

Considering the current and forecasted provincial fire situation, sufficient personnel and resources remain in B.C. to respond appropriately to any within-province fire activities. Crews can be deployed for up to 19 days but can be recalled at any time.

Costs associated with deployment will be covered by the receiving jurisdictions under the Mutual Aid Resources Sharing Agreement, which allows for the movement of firefighting resources throughout Canada.

Quick Facts:

  • Initial attack crew: These wildland firefighters are usually assigned to newer and smaller fires.
  • Agency representative: Acts as the link between the deployed crews and the Wildfire Management Branch.
  • Prescribed fire can be used to safely reintroduce fire into the landscape to restore natural ecosystems, enhance habitat and reduce fuel loads. Wildfire Management Branch staff are often called upon to supply equipment and resources for these planned burns.

Learn More:

For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions in B.C., visit: www.bcwildfire.ca

You can also follow the latest B.C. wildfire news:

On Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo
On Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Media Contact:

Kevin Skrepnek
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
250 312-3075 (office)

]]> Northwest Fire Centre urges caution with burning tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5983 2013-05-08T16:00:00Z 2013-05-08T17:16:08Z The Northwest Fire Centre is urging the public to exercise caution with any outdoor burning activities this week due to more hot and dry weather expected in the region. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ SMITHERS - The Northwest Fire Centre is urging the public to exercise caution with any outdoor burning activities this week due to more hot and dry weather expected in the region.

Over the past week, fire crews in the Northwest Fire Centre have responded to seven wildfires resulting from grass and pile burning. This is a concern given that the Fire Danger Rating is already "high" in some parts of the region.

At this time of year, dead grass from last summer becomes very dry and can be highly flammable. Almost all wildfires at this time of year are human caused and are therefore preventable.

Homeowners and industry personnel are encouraged to consult the B.C. FireSmart manual and take the following precautions:

  • Ensure that enough people, water and tools are on hand to control the fire and prevent it from escaping.
  • Do not burn during windy conditions. Weather conditions can change quickly and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material and start new fires.
  • Create a fireguard at least one metre around the planned fire site by clearing away twigs, grass, leaves and other combustible material.
  • Never leave a fire unattended. Make sure that your fire is completely extinguished and the ashes are cold to the touch before you leave the area.

To view the B.C. FireSmart manual, visit:http://bcwildfire.ca/FightingWildfire/safety/pamphlets/FireSmart-BC4.pdf

If you are planning to do any large-scale industrial burning or conduct a grass burn over 0.2 hectares in size (Category 3 fires), you must obtain a burn registration number ahead of time by calling 1 888 797-1717. More information is available at: http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/Bans.asp

Always check venting conditions before conducting an open burn. If conditions are rated "Poor" or "Fair", open burning is restricted. The venting index can be found at:http://www.bcairquality.ca/readings/ventilation-index.html

In British Columbia, the Wildfire Act specifies a person's legal obligations when using fire on or within one kilometre of forest or grassland. If an outdoor burn escapes and causes a wildfire, the person responsible may be held accountable for damages and fire suppression costs.

Anyone found in contravention of an open fire prohibition may be issued a ticket for $345 or, if convicted in court, be fined up to $100,000 and sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person may be subject to a penalty of up to $10,000 and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

The Province thanks the public for its ongoing help in preventing wildfires. To report a wildfire or unattended campfire, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or call *5555 on your cellphone.

For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website: www.bcwildfire.ca

You can also follow the latest wildfire news:

Media Contact:

Suzanne Pearce
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Northwest Fire Centre
250 847-6639

]]> Dry conditions lead to open fire ban in Peace region tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5981 2013-05-07T19:20:00Z 2013-05-07T22:42:02Z Effective noon on Thursday, May 9, 2013, Category 2 open fires and the use of fireworks will be prohibited in the Fort St. John and Dawson Creek fire zones. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ PRINCE GEORGE - As a result of dry conditions and an increasing wildfire risk, effective noon on Thursday, May 9, 2013, Category 2 open fires and the use of fireworks will be prohibited in the Fort St. John and Dawson Creek fire zones.

This prohibition will be in place until June 15, or until the public is otherwise notified.

Hot and dry weather over the past week have led to a spike in human-caused wildfires in the Peace region and elsewhere in B.C. Low humidity and high temperatures are expected to continue, so anyone working outdoors should be extremely diligent when operating equipment. All-terrain vehicle riders should be cautious in the backcountry, since any spark could ignite a wildfire.

Specifically, this prohibition on Category 2 open fires applies to:

  • The burning of any material, piled or unpiled, smaller than two metres in height and three metres in width, including burning barrels.
  • Fireworks.
  • Stubble or grass fires over an area less than 2,000 square metres.

This order does not prohibit campfires that are a half-metre high by a half-metre wide or smaller, or apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes. Anyone lighting a campfire must maintain a fireguard by removing flammable debris from the campfire area, and they must have a hand tool or at least eight litres of water available nearby to properly extinguish the fire before leaving the area for any length of time.

Any person lighting larger fires or more than two fires of any size must comply with burning regulations and must first obtain a burn registration number by calling 1 888 797-1717.

This prohibition covers all BC Parks and Crown and private lands, but does not apply within the boundaries of local governments that have forest fire prevention bylaws and are serviced by a fire department. Please check with civic authorities for any restrictions before lighting a fire.

Anyone found in contravention of an open fire prohibition may be fined $345 or, if convicted in court, be fined up to $100,000 and sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person may be subject to a penalty of up to $10,000 and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

The Dawson Creek and Fort St. John Fire zones are within and follow the Peace River Regional District boundaries. To see a map of the area affected, click here: http://ow.ly/kNupx

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

For the latest information on current wildfire activity, burning restrictions, road closures and air quality advisories, go to: http://www.bcwildfire.ca

You can also follow the latest wildfire news:

Media Contact:

Brent Bye
Senior Protection Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Prince George Fire Centre
250 565-6716
Brent.Bye@gov.bc.ca

]]> Use caution near the Okanagan River tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5976 2013-05-03T18:00:00Z 2013-05-03T19:29:59Z The public is urged to take extra care near the Okanagan River because of high water levels. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ PENTICTON - The public is urged to take extra care near the Okanagan River because of high water levels.

Visitors and residents are reminded that the Okanagan River's deep and fast-flowing current requires heightened safety awareness during the spring snowmelt.

Adults are urged to keep children and pets under close supervision at all times when near the banks of the river. If going into the river, take precautionary safety measures such as using a safe watercraft and wearing a life jacket.

This year's snowpack melt is expected to cause higher runoff into Okanagan River from Okanagan Lake for the next several weeks. Flows in Okanagan River between Okanagan Lake and Osoyoos Lake are currently well above normal and are expected to remain high throughout the spring and early summer.

Learn More:

For more information on flood prevention and flood response, visit:
http://www.emergencyinfobc.gov.bc.ca/response-recovery.html

Media Contacts:

Des Anderson
Head, Public Safety and Protection
Okanagan-Shuswap District
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 490-8200

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261

]]> Prince George Fire Centre urges caution with open burns tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5971 2013-04-26T17:55:00Z 2013-04-26T21:17:15Z The Prince George Fire Centre is asking the public to exercise caution with any outdoor burning activities this spring. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ PRINCE GEORGE - The Prince George Fire Centre is asking the public to exercise caution with any outdoor burning activities this spring.

As the snow melts, dried grass from last summer is uncovered and that material can be highly flammable. Almost all wildfires at this time of the year are caused by people and are therefore preventable.

Homeowners and industry personnel are encouraged to consult the B.C. FireSmart manual and take the following precautions:

  • Ensure that enough people, water and tools are on hand to control the fire and prevent it from escaping.
  • Do not burn during windy conditions. Weather conditions can change quickly and the wind may carry embers to other combustible material and start new fires.
  • Create a fireguard at least one metre around the planned fire site by clearing away twigs, grass, leaves and other combustible material.
  • If you are planning a large burn, consider conducting smaller burns around the perimeter beforehand to create a fuel break and help stop the fire from spreading beyond its intended size. Each of these fires should be kept small and must be completely extinguished before starting a new fire.
  • Never leave a fire unattended. Make sure that your fire is completely extinguished and the ashes are cold to the touch before you leave the area.

If you are planning to do any large-scale industrial burning or conduct a grass burn over 0.2 hectares (Category 3 fires), you must obtain a burn registration number ahead of time by calling 1 888 797-1717. More information is available at: http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/Bans.asp

Venting conditions should always be checked before conducting an open burn. If conditions are rated "Poor" or "Fair", open burning is restricted. The venting index can be found at: http://www.bcairquality.ca/readings/ventilation-index.html

In British Columbia, the Wildfire Act specifies a person's legal obligations when using fire on or within one kilometre of forest land or grassland. If an outdoor burn escapes and causes a wildfire, the person responsible may be held accountable for damages and fire suppression costs.

Anyone found in contravention of an open fire prohibition may be issued a ticket for $345 or, if convicted in court, be fined up to $100,000 and sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person may be subject to a penalty of up to $10,000 and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.

The Province thanks the public for its ongoing help in preventing wildfires. If you see flames or smoke, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or call *5555 on your cellphone.

To view the B.C. FireSmart manual, visit: http://bcwildfire.ca/FightingWildfire/safety/pamphlets/FireSmart-BC4.pdf

For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website: www.bcwildfire.ca

You can follow the latest wildfire news -

On Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo

On Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Media Contact:

Steve Matlashewski
Regional Wildfire Control Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Prince George Fire Centre
250 565-6114

]]> Leave newborn wildlife in the wild tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5970 2013-04-26T17:00:00Z 2013-04-26T21:15:30Z When it comes to newborn wild animals, mother always knows best, and so with fawning and calving season underway, provincial biologists are reminding people that newborn deer, elk or moose should not be touched or moved when encountered. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ VICTORIA - When it comes to newborn wild animals, mother always knows best, and so with fawning and calving season underway, provincial biologists are reminding people that newborn deer, elk or moose should not be touched or moved when encountered.

People who find these newborns alone often mistakenly believe they have been abandoned, but usually they have only been left there temporarily by their mother, who will return. Intervening in these situations by "rescuing" the fawn or calf is rarely necessary and will usually do more harm than good.

It is normal for mother deer, elk and other ungulates to leave their young alone for long periods, returning a few times a day to nurse and relying on the newborn's lack of scent to protect them from predators. Returning mothers that find humans or pets nearby may leave or can become aggressive to defend their offspring from the perceived threat. The mother will return if the young is left alone.

Although these newborns may appear abandoned, it is rarely the case, and if they are removed they will be orphaned. While professional wildlife rehabilitation facilities in some areas of B.C. can successfully rear these newborns, there is no maternal care and their chances of survival are far less than if they had been raised by their true mother.

This is true not just for deer; many mammals leave their young alone for long periods of time, only to return to feed them at regular intervals. So, if you encounter a young deer or calf in the wild at this time of the year, appreciate the experience, but don't approach or intervene.

Quick Facts:

If you find a fawn or calf that you think may be orphaned, here's what you should do:

  • If it is lying quietly, leave it alone and leave the area. Your presence will discourage the mother from returning.
  • Keep all children and especially dogs away from the area.
  • If you think the fawn or calf is not being cared for by its mother, return the next day to check. If it is in the exact same spot, it may be injured or orphaned. Contact a wildlife rehabilitator as soon as possible, but do not touch or move the animal.
  • Do not touch or feed the animal.

Learn More:

To find a wildlife rehabilitator near you, visit the Wildlife Rehabilitators Network of British Columbia at: http://www.wrnbc.org/contact/find-a-local-rehabilitator/

Media Contact:

Brennan Clarke
Public Affairs Officer
Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations
250 356-5261

]]> Prescribed burning to resume in Morrissey Creek area tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5969 2013-04-23T22:45:00Z 2013-04-23T22:53:49Z The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations has scheduled the second phase of a prescribed burn in the Morrissey Creek area. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ GRAND FORKS - The Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations has scheduled the second phase of a prescribed burn in the Morrissey Creek area for Wednesday, April 24. The exact timing of the burn will depend on weather and site conditions.

The 10-hectare burn will be conducted about five kilometres east of Grand Forks. Smoke and flames may be visible from Grand Forks and along Highway 3.

This controlled burn will help re-establish appropriate ecological conditions, maintain winter range forage for wildlife and reduce forest fuel loads.

The burn will proceed only if weather and fire behaviour conditions will allow for quick smoke dissipation and low to moderate fire intensity. If conditions are not suitable, the burn will not take place.

Trained wildfire personnel will carefully monitor the fire at all times. Fire control and suppression actions will be taken to meet the project's goals and objectives. The goal is to mimic a naturally occurring ground fire and reduce the level of dead and combustible material in grassland and open forest areas.

Removal of these forest fuels helps reduce the threat of catastrophic wildfires. Fire can also discourage insect infestations and help fire-adapted plant species reproduce, such as grasses that thrive in newly cleared areas or trees whose seeds are only released when exposed to heat.

A factsheet follows.

Media Contact:

Karlie Shaughnessy
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Southeast Fire Centre
250 365-4014

FACTSHEET

Prescribed burning used as ecosystem management tool

  • Fire is a normal, natural process in many of British Columbia's ecosystems. Many species of plants, birds, insects and other animals depend on fire for its regenerative properties.
  • Fire helps control insects and the spread of disease in forests. It also contributes to forest succession, as younger trees replace older trees. Having trees of various ages in a forest helps creates biodiversity.
  • Prescribed burning is one of the tools used by forest professionals to achieve land management objectives. For example, fire can be used to enhance habitat and improve forage for cattle, deer, bighorn sheep and moose. A controlled burn can also reduce fuel loads (combustible material such as underbrush and dead wood) and reduce the risk of wildfire in interface areas (where urban development borders on rural areas).
  • The size and intensity of prescribed burns are carefully planned and controlled to meet management objectives for fire-maintained ecosystems. Prescribed burns are only ignited when weather conditions are favourable and when the fire will not create excessive smoke. Important factors that are used to determine the date of a burn include the venting index, temperature, humidity and wind conditions.
  • The venting index is a measure of how quickly smoke will disperse under specific conditions. Prescribed fires may only be ignited on days when the forecast for the venting index is "good" or better.
  • All prescribed burns must comply with the Environmental Management Act and the Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation. This helps minimize the amount of smoke generated.
  • A prescribed burn is ignited and continuously monitored by trained firefighting crews to ensure that the fire does not get out of control. The fire crew supervisor (the "burn boss") is responsible for ensuring that the initial burn conditions are favourable and that the fire is extinguished once the prescribed burn is completed.

Media Contact:

Karlie Shaughnessy
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Southeast Fire Centre
250 365-4014


]]> Wildfire training scenario scheduled for Oyster River tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5966 2013-04-23T17:00:00Z 2013-04-23T17:11:20Z A training exercise focusing on wildland/urban interface fires will take place in the York Road area of Oyster River on Sunday, April 28. The event will provide cross-training opportunities for first-responder agencies. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ PARKSVILLE - A training exercise focusing on wildland/urban interface fires will take place in the York Road area of Oyster River on Sunday, April 28. The event will provide cross-training opportunities for first-responder agencies.

Local residents may notice increased traffic levels, sirens and emergency personnel and equipment activity during this exercise.

Participating agencies will include the Wildfire Management Branch of the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations, the BC Ambulance Service, search and rescue organizations, the RCMP, local governments, fire departments and emergency personnel. BC Hydro, FortisBC, the Campbell River Amateur Radio Society and other local partners will take part.

The agencies will be using fire engines, water tenders and rescue vehicles. Other resources include a Type 1 Structural Protection Unit (giant sprinkler), which is used to protect buildings in the event of an approaching wildfire.

The April 28 training exercise will follow two days of training on how to respond to a specific wildfire scenario: an aggressive, wind-driven wildfire started by a motor vehicle fire on Highway 19. Highway 19 will not be affected by this training scenario. However, first responders will be working on or near York Road.

A wildland/urban interface is where a wilderness area meets an urban development. In the interface area, buildings and vegetation are sufficiently close together that a wildfire could spread to nearby structures.

Due to the complex nature of interface fires, a multi-agency response is usually required. These agencies may set up a unified command structure to determine objectives, identify strategies, establish communication links and assign tasks and functions to protect life and property.

This demanding training exercise will require first responders to collaborate closely with one another as they hone their skills to prepare for future emergencies.

For the latest information on current wildfire activity and burning restrictions, go to: http://www.bcwildfire.ca

You can also follow the latest wildfire news -

On Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo

On Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Contacts:
Donna Macpherson or Marg Drysdale
Fire Information Officers
Wildfire Management Branch
Coastal Fire Centre
250 951-4209 (media line)
FORHPRP.INFOCO@gov.bc.ca

]]> Open fire prohibition set for Kamloops Fire Centre tag:www.newsroom.gov.bc.ca,2013://1.5964 2013-04-22T18:00:00Z 2013-04-22T18:29:05Z Effective at noon on May 15, 2013, the size of open fires will be restricted in most of the Kamloops Fire Centre to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect the public. BC Government http://www.gov.bc.ca/ KAMLOOPS - Effective at noon on May 15, 2013, the size of open fires will be restricted in most of the Kamloops Fire Centre to help prevent human-caused wildfires and protect the public.

This prohibition will apply to all areas of the Kamloops Fire Centre except the Clearwater Fire Zone and the Salmon Arm Fire Zone. Anyone conducting Category 2 or 3 fires outside of those two zones must extinguish any such fires by noon on May 15.

This prohibition will remain in effect until Oct. 15, 2013, or until further notice. A map of the affected areas is available online at: http://ow.ly/kewIE

For information about open burning and tips on making responsible burning decisions, please download the open burning guides at: http://bcwildfire.ca/hprScripts/WildfireNews/Bans.asp

The Clearwater Fire Zone and the Salmon Arm Fire Zone will become subject to this prohibition on June 15, 2013, when all open burning will be prohibited throughout the Kamloops Fire Centre.

Specific activities affected by this prohibition include:

  • The burning of any waste, slash or other materials (piled or unpiled) at a size larger than one-half metre by one-half metre.
  • The burning of more than two open fires of any size at the same time.
  • Stubble or grass fires of any size over any area.
  • The use of fireworks, sky lanterns or burning barrels of any size or description.

This prohibition does not ban campfires that are a half-metre high by a half-metre wide (or smaller) and does not apply to cooking stoves that use gas, propane or briquettes.

This prohibition covers all BC Parks, Crown lands and private lands, but it does not apply within the boundaries of a local government that has forest fire prevention bylaws in place and is serviced by a fire department. Before lighting any fire, residents should check with local civic authorities regarding any current prohibitions.

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

Quick Facts:

  • The Kamloops Fire Centre stretches from the northern border of Wells Gray Park to the United States border to the south, and from the Bridge River Glacier west of Gold Bridge to the Monashee Mountains east of Lumby.
  • Anyone found in contravention of an open fire prohibition may be issued a ticket for $345 or, if convicted in court, be fined up to $100,000 and sentenced to one year in jail. If the contravention causes or contributes to a wildfire, the person may be subject to a penalty of up to $10,000 and be ordered to pay all firefighting and associated costs.
  • For the latest information on fire activity, conditions and prohibitions, visit the Wildfire Management Branch website: www.bcwildfire.ca
  • You can follow the latest wildfire news -

On Twitter at: http://twitter.com/BCGovFireInfo

On Facebook at: http://facebook.com/BCForestFireInfo

Contacts:

Michaela Swan
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Kamloops Fire Centre
250 554-5532
Michaela.Swan@gov.bc.ca

Kayla Pepper
Fire Information Officer
Wildfire Management Branch
Kamloops Fire Centre
250 554-5530
Kayla.Pepper@gov.bc.ca


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