The BC Southeast Fire Centre crews will be returning to Golden to conduct a prescribed burn as part of the ongoing Wildfire Prevention Program. Burning of piled forest debris in the forested areas above Selkirk Heights will begin Monday Sept. 9.
“All burning depends on the appropriate weather conditions. Moisture levels, winds, venting conditions and public safety are all contributing factors to ensure the efficient removal of the piled forest debris” says Mayor Christina Benty. “Preventing large scale fires though small managed fires is a procedure commonly used by professional foresters. The end results will help protect the Town in the event of a wildfire.”
A planned combination of large scale debris removal, chipping and burning of debris is a method approved by the Union of BC Municipalities Strategic Wildfire Prevention Initiatives and the Ministry of Forests Fuel Management Branch. All burning will be weather dependent, specifically subject to good venting days when smoke will efficiently rise and be carried away from populated areas.
The public are asked to be aware of and respect any closures imposed by the Forest Service Site Supervisor.
The Wildfire Prevention Program is part of a multi-year plan dating back to 2010 and formally launched in the summer of 2012. The project goal is to protect Golden from wildfire spreading into the community by limiting the forest fuel load. It is noteworthy that this work contributed by BC Forest Service personnel will reduce local taxpayer project costs and 90 per cent of the remaining project funding will be provided by provincial government grants.
The Town of Golden apologizes for any inconvenience and temporary trail closures the project poses to residents in the area; however trusts the important end benefits will be recognized and appreciated. Updates will be provided as the project nears completion.
