The BC Wildfire Service will be conducting an ecosystem restoration burn at the north end of Cotton Road near Riske Creek and Tl’esqox First Nation.
Planned to cover approximately 85 hectares of grassland, the burn may begin as early as Friday, March 22 and continue periodically until April 4.
The exact timing of the burn will be dependent on weather, site and venting conditions and ignitions will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for quick smoke dissipation.
BC Wildfire Service said crews will prepare, control and monitor the prescribed burn at all times.
Smoke and flames will be highly visible to motorists travelling along Highway 20, and may be visible to surrounding residences.
The purpose of this prescribed burn is to restore open grasslands by reducing encroachment from juniper and conifer trees, improve the grassland forage for future wildlife and cattle grazing, reduce the wildfire hazard within the area and promote the growth of local plant species while reducing the spread of invasive plant species, noted the BC Wildfire Service in a news bulletin.
“Historically, grasslands in the Cariboo-Chilcotin were renewed and maintained through frequent, low-intensity ground fires. Such fires prevented tree encroachment, rejuvenated understory plants and helped maintain open grasslands and forests with large trees.”
The reintroduction of managed, low-intensity ground fires to these grasslands is intended to restore and maintain the traditional grassland plant communities that are native to these areas. These managed fires also reduce fuel loads, leading to a decreased risk of high intensity wildfires.
To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or open burning violation, call 1 800 663-5555 toll-free or *5555 on a cell phone.
Burns are also scheduled further along Highway 20 anytime from March 20 until the end of May.
READ MORE: Chilcotin’s Hwy 20 to see prescribed burns for hazard reduction
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