West Kootenay’s fire season is beginning with a human-caused fire near Castlegar.
A fire at McCormick Creek on the south shore of Arrow Lake ignited on Sunday, May 16, according to the BC Wildfire Service. The fire is located between Robson and Syringa Creek Provincial Park but on the opposite side of the lake on private land.
As of Monday, the blaze was an estimated to be .08 hectares in size and was under control.
A .1-hectare under-control wildfire is also burning at Trozzo Creek near Winlaw in a slash pile that is part of a fuel mitigation project.
There have been 212 wildfires in B.C. so far this year – 11 of those reported in the past week.
The wildfire service is preparing for what could be a busy season, conducting air tanker practice drops in Prince George this week.
Early season practices are important for air attack officers and the tankers groups to remain proficient and prepared to respond to active wildfires. Practices also provide an opportunity to ensure that the aircraft are mechanically sound and ready to respond.
— BC Wildfire Service (@BCGovFireInfo) May 16, 2021
READ MORE: Castlegar fire chief praises Boston Pizza staff after responding to fire call at the restaurant
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