Pair of prescribed burns planned for Lytton area

LYTTON, B.C. — A pair of prescribed burns near the Village of Lytton are expected to take place next week.

The BC Wildfire Service says it’s supporting Lytton First Nation in carrying out the two prescribed burns.

In a news release issued Tuesday (March 4), the wildfire service says the 47 Field burn will be nearly 43.5 hectares on Ngwyu’uyemc 36 Indian Reserve in the Botanie Valley. Smoke is expected to be visible from Lytton.

Elsewhere, the Green Meadows burn will be nearly 24.5 hectares on Inkluckcheen 21 Indian Reserve, approximately three kilometres northwest of Lytton. Smoke may be visible to Lytton residents and travellers along Highway 12.

The wildfire service says the goals of the two prescribed burns include reducing wildfire risk and having cross-training between staff with Lytton First Nation and the wildfire service.

The burns are expected to begin March 10 and last until April 1, but the wildfire service says it’s dependent on site and weather conditions.

Prescribed burns are also planned for areas in and around Kamloops, Merritt, Salmon Arm and Williams Lake.