It’s campfires or nothing.
The BC Wildfire Service imposed an open burning ban as of noon on Sunday, May 15 and the City of Salmon Arm followed suit. But notice of the ban, which is a month earlier than normal, wasn’t received at Neskonlith IR#3 where a worker was operating a clean-up burn of tree stumps and limbs and brush on Sunday afternoon.
Salmon Arm Fire Chief Brad Shirley says the fire department was alerted to smoke emanating from the fire at about 3 p.m. Sunday.
Duty chief Jim Shirley attended the fire and felt it wasn’t a hazard.
“It wasn’t going to go anywhere, and they verbally agreed to watch it and not put any more material on it,” says Brad. “Theoretically, they’re supposed to follow our bylaws because the city provides fire protection on a contract basis. It’s frustrating, but it’s their right.”
Neskonlith Chief Judy Wilson says the band is well-aware of the wildfire risk and was sending out information on the ban to all band members on Tuesday.
“Half our IR#1 (Chase) reserve burned up in 2003,” said Wilson, noting the band clearly understands forest regulations and the importance of fire bans. “At the same time, there are a lot of gaps; we have to talk to a lot of different levels of government – province, city and likewise our government.”
Wilson says the band works on the interface with First Nations Emergency Service to reduce wildfire risk. “We’re very cognizant of the risks and the need for a collaborative approach.”
While the province does not have jurisdiction on band land, the Neskonlith band works with Indian Affairs to review fire protection contracts every year, she says.
Even ceremonial sweat lodges are conducted with a safety plan, and if the risk is considered to be to great, the band finds an alternative.
Meanwhile, earlier-than-normal fire risk warnings and wildfires in northern B.C. and Alberta, have prompted the Salmon Arm Fire Department to remind residents of the need to follow burning bylaws and to be prepared.
Campfires are still permitted both within the Kamloops Fire Centre and the City of Salmon Arm but have restrictions.
Within city boundaries an annual $10 permit is available at Firehall #3. Campfires must be contained in a non-combustible, permanent fixture no bigger than 30 inches in diameter and between eight to 24 inches from the base to the top of the fixture.
The campfire must be located not less than 17 feet from property lines, structures or standing timber and brush and must be extinguished with water by 11 p.m.
Full details on city campfire regulations are available at www.salmonarm.ca/DocumentCenter/View/237. Brochures are also available at Hall 3 or city hall.