Nelson Fire & Rescue Service and BC Wildfire are currently conducting a controlled burn near the Highway 6 and 3A interchange.
The burn is part of a three-stage wildfire risk reduction project on the interchange and will cover up to 1.8 hectares, targeting the dry grass cover next to the highway.
The fire service said the burn aims to increase community safety by reducing hazardous ground fuels. It will specifically target the buildup of continuous, matted grass covers, reduce ember receptivity, and protect the area from wildfires, as it’s a key evacuation corridor.
This burn also provides a valuable training opportunity that will increase the capacity of the Nelson Fire and Rescue Services to respond to future wildfires within the wildland-urban interface.
“This is a great opportunity to not only reduce some of the risk in this area, where we’ve responded to a wildfire in the past but also to share some knowledge between the two organizations,” stated Nelson Fire Rescue Service Chief Jeff Hebert in the release.
Smoke will be visible to motorists travelling along the Highway 6 and Highway 3A interchange and may temporarily impact adjacent residents.
No road or lane closures are planned, and the highway will be monitored throughout the duration of the burn.
Motorists are asked not to slow down or stop on the highway to watch the burn operation, as it can create unsafe conditions for both staff and travellers.