By Mandy Vocke

Smoke from pile burning to be visible in Smithers area

Apr 15, 2019 | 1:03 PM

SMITHERS— The B.C. Wildfire Service will be burning piles of wood debris in Call Lake Provincial Park between April 15 and May 31, 2019. The burning will be in collaboration with B.C. Parks as part of a multi-year FireSmart project to reduce wildfire risks in the area.

Smoke will likely be visible from Smithers and other nearby communities when firefighting crews are burning these piles.

The burns could begin as early as today (April 15), if weather and site conditions are suitable. Wind speed, wind direction and venting conditions will be considered prior to ignition, to help the smoke dissipate as quickly as possible.

The wood debris piles are the result of forest thinning and pruning activities from 2018, during the first phase of a multi-year project. Phase 2 will continue throughout 2019 when B.C. Wildfire Service crews are not actively fighting or preparing for wildfires.

The project area covers 10 hectares of forested land about five kilometres southeast of Smithers, within Call Lake Provincial Park. Posted signs will inform recreational day users of the park when crews are working in the area. Short-term closures of some trail sections may occur.

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