Prescribed burns scheduled in Tumbler Ridge

TUMBLER RIDGE, B.C. — Prescribed burns will be conducted in the Tumbler Ridge area over the weekend.  

In an April 25th Facebook post, BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) reminded the public it is set to conduct a 2.6-hectare prescribed burn in the Flatbed trail area to reduce the buildup of combustible materials and mitigate the long-term wildfire risks.

The operation is being done through a partnership with the Tumbler Ridge Fire Department. 

BCWS expects the operation to start on Saturday, April 26th and will establish control lines, assess burn conditions and address potential hazards.

The service advised residents and motorists of the burns and to expect to see smoke while driving on Highway 29 and Highway 52 near the district.

“BC Wildfire and fire department personnel will remain onsite and continue to monitor the area following the completion of the operation,” said the post. 

According to Tumbler Ridge fire chief, Dustin Curry, the public has been well informed of the activity.

“We’ve done a lot of social media outreach with the community, and people are well prepared and informed,” said Curry.

Crews have been on site in preparation for the operation since April 15th.

The district of Tumbler Ridge received a BCWS report on controlled burns in July 2024, which recommended the district identify potential burn areas. 

“Weather and site conditions this weekend are conducive to achieving low-intensity surface fire and adequate smoke dispersal,” said the post. 

A prescribed burn is a planned and controlled fire applied to a specific land area to help ensure public safety, reduce the damage of future wildfires, improve habitat for wildlife and more. 

More information on the benefits of prescribed burns can be found at Cultural Burning and Prescribed Fire, or the Government of BC website.