The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) will be supporting the Nooaitch and Coldwater Indian Bands in conducting a prescribed burn covering up to 29 hectares on Nooaitch IR #9 and #10, about 20 kilometres west of Merritt, and multiple burns totalling 65 hectares on Coldwater IR#1 about 10 kilometres southwest of Merritt.
Smoke from the burns may be visible to members of the Nooaitch and Coldwater Indian Bands, the City of Merritt, the Lower Nicola community and surrounding areas, and to motorists travelling along area highways.
The exact timing of the burns will depend on weather and site conditions, but BCWS said they could begin as early as Monday, March 3, and might last until the end of April. Burning will only proceed if conditions are suitable and will allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, although smoke may also linger in the following days.
Key goals of these prescribed burns include:
- reducing the build-up of dead grass and promoting the growth of traditional foods;
- improving ungulate winter grazing;
- removing forest fuels to reduce the long-term risk of wildfire; and
- providing critical cross-training and community partnership opportunities for BCWS personnel and members of the Nooaitch and Coldwater Indian Bands.
The BC Wildfire Service has produced a video which is an excellent resource for people interested in learning more about prescribed and cultural fire. It can be viewed on YouTube at https://bit.ly/41r9wCf.
The wildfire service notes that fire is a normal and natural process in many of B.C.’s ecosystems. BCWS works regularly with a range of partners to undertake fuel management activities (including the use of controlled burns), in order to help reduce the severity of future wildfires and related threats to communities.
These projects are carefully planned and only go ahead at the right times and under the right conditions, to ensure community and practitioner safety.
Exposure to smoke can irritate eyes and respiratory tracts and worsen pre-existing lung and heart conditions. If your area is impacted by smoke, run portable air cleaners with windows and doors closed. Both commercial and home-made units (https://rb.gy/90uh5s) can be effective if operated properly.
Reduce the length and intensity of outdoor activities, and be sure to manage pre-existing conditions. Seek medical care if you have severe symptoms.
