Prescribed burn begins on Knox Mountain Park
News Release
Kelowna Fire Department (KFD) and the City of Kelowna’s Parks department, with support from BC Wildfire Service, are planning an 11-hectare controlled burn in a forested area in Knox Mountain Park starting today.
The prescribed fire will reduce wildfire risk, reduce continuous build-up of fine fuels and woody debris, decrease shrub coverage and restore natural habitats. The burn is expected to last one day, and will target excess vegetation while protecting nearby homes, park infrastructure, and environmentally sensitive areas.
This work will primarily occur to the west of Magic Estates with localized trail closures occurring between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily.
“This burn is the result of months of planning and collaboration between the Kelowna Fire Department, BC Wildfire Service, and our Parks team. Every step has been carefully considered to ensure a safe and effective operation,” says Dennis Craig, KFD’s Assistant Fire Chief Mitigation & Prevention.
This type of prescribed burn is the first such event done by KFD; however, it has been done successfully in other communities including Kamloops, Cranbrook and Lake Country.
Strict monitoring of fire behavior, weather, and smoke will ensure safety, and KFD and BC Wildfire Service crews will control any fire spread. There will also be measures to minimize smoke impact, with burning only occurring under specific weather conditions.
Post-burn assessments will evaluate success, and mop-up operations will ensure all fire is fully extinguished within several days. The prescribed burn is funded by a Municipal Climate Resiliency Grant through Intact Financial Corporation.
Smoke will be visible in Knox Mountain Park and beyond during the burn period. KFD, City of Kelowna’s Parks department, and BC Wildfire Service crews will be actively monitoring and managing the fire.
Residents, especially those with respiratory conditions, are advised to take the following precautions during the prescribed burn:
Stay Indoors: Keep windows and doors closed to prevent smoke from entering your home. Use air purifiers if available.
Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid outdoor activities, especially strenuous exercises, during the burn period to minimize exposure to smoke.
Monitor Air Quality: Stay informed about the air quality in your area by checking local air quality reports and updates from KFD and BC Wildfire Service.
