Image credit: BC Wildfire Service

By Marty Hastings

FIRE UPDATES

No significant growth overnight to Barkerville/Cornish Mountain wildfire; Ancient Forest Park fire update

Jul 13, 2024 | 1:11 PM

The Barkerville/Cornish Mountain wildfire has not experience notable growth since Friday (July 12), according an update on Saturday on the BC Wildfire Service website.

Evacuation alerts have been in place since Wednesday (July 10) for Barkerville and the District of Wells, along with an evacuation order for a small portion of the District of Wells, including its mine site.

The fire, discovered burning about five kilometres north of Jack of Clubs Lake, is 70 hectares and remains classified as out of control.

The service is also responding to fires in the area of the Ancient Forest (Chun T’oh Whudujut) Park, the largest of which is about 10 hectares in size and out-of control, according to an update on Friday.

The park’s terrain, ecological and cultural values have challenged fire suppression efforts, particularly on the southern flank, according to the BCWS, which notes it is actively working with BC Parks, the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation and the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George to ensure awareness and protection of values.

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Crews are on scene and personnel have established a helipad and water relay system.

The focus will remain on protecting values by using appropriate methods and tactics where they are feasible for fire suppression, notes the BCWS.

Aerial resources will be used where safe and effective, especially in areas inaccessible by ground.

Lightning is the suspected cause of the fires.