Wildfire mitigation ongoing in local park

Public Service Announcement

This work may result in localized daytime trail closures and park users are asked to obey trail closure signage for their safety. Although the debris from this project is primarily chipped, crews will be burning debris in areas inaccessible to chipping equipment. Pile burning will occur on days when weather permits. 

“For public safety, we ask that park visitors and trail users watch for signage identifying work areas and to stay out of active work zones. Whenever possible, avoid any area where you can hear chainsaws actively at work,” says Thomas Martin, Urban Forestry Technician for the City of Kelowna. 

Fire mitigation activities will  be taking place in all areas of Dilworth Mountain Park throughout this winter and into Spring. Localized trail closures may occur between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily. 

According to Dennis Craig, Assistant Fire Chief Mitigation & Prevention with the Kelowna Fire Department, fuel mitigation projects such as these are examples of FireSmartTM initiatives helping to build resiliency in our city parks while providing protection against the impacts of both wildfire and climate change. 

“The goal of the FireSmartTM program is to support wildfire preparedness, prevention and mitigation. Reducing this risk is a shared responsibility. It is important that we all play our part in reducing wildfire threats, whether it is through the work of City Parks staff or as residents taking simple actions to protect their homes and their surrounding environment.” 

To learn more about what you can do to reduce the risk of wildfire in your home or within your community, visit FireSmartTM Kelowna. Any questions about these ongoing projects may be directed to Kelowna Parks Services at (250) 717-2757. 

Parks Services and the Kelowna Fire Department thank the public for their cooperation and understanding during this important operation. 

Learn more about wildfire prevention at Kelowna.ca/fireprevention