Crews gear up for summer wildfire risk reduction work in Cranbrook area

Wildfire risk reduction crews are now wrapping up their winter and spring field operations as temperatures start to rise across the East Kootenay.

Crown land crews have been operating in the Cranbrook Community Forest and Baker Mountain Road.

Work included removing surface fuels and small trees, then placing them in burn piles that would remain in place throughout the summer.

“These piles require time to cure and will be safely burned in the fall when conditions allow, in accordance with provincial regulations and the Ministry of Environment’s Open Burning Smoke Control Regulation,” said the Regional District of East Kootenay.

Signs will be posted during active work.

Motorists are asked to help reduce the risk of accidental fires or equipment damage by avoiding the treatment sites.

Crews are set to return in the fall to complete the burning work, depending on weather, moisture and smoke conditions.