If you see plumes of smoke rising over the valley, don’t fret.
The Regional District of Central Okanagan is doing a controlled burn in a portion of Black Mountain / sntsk‘il’ntən Regional Park.
Open burning is also allowed today for those eligible Central Okanagan property owners with permits from their local fire authority.
“Today’s activity continues the disposal of fire hazard debris collected as part of a five-hectare fuel modification project in the park,” reads a press release from the district.
“The park located on the east slopes just outside Kelowna is closed to the public. The fuel management project is part of the ongoing effort to prepare it for future access.”
Burning has been authorized with appropriate permits for fire fuel hazard reduction. All local fire departments and local media have been advised of today’s activity in the park and will be notified when further burning takes place.
As well, over the coming weeks when open burning is allowed, debris piles collected last year will be burned in a portion of Rose Valley Regional Park above Bear Creek Road off Bowes and Pettman Roads in West Kelowna. BC Wildfire Service crews are continuing a multi-year fuel modification project in this ten-hectare section of the park. Please be aware that trails in this area may be temporarily closed while crews are working.
For more information visit the Regional District Parks Services webpage regionaldistrict.com/parks, email parks@cord.bc.ca or call 250-469-6232.