If you spot smoke rising from Rose Valley Regional Park in the coming days, it鈥檚 part of a planned and monitored burn to help restore the forest after the 2023 McDougall Creek wildfire.
The Regional District of Central Okanagan (RDCO) said that controlled pile burning will take place in the park between April 25 and April 30, weather and venting conditions permitting. The work is part of an ongoing effort to reduce fire risk and support the long-term health of the ecosystem.
鈥淧ile burning is a critical next step in our wildfire recovery efforts,鈥� said Wayne Darlington, RDCO鈥檚 manager of parks capital planning and asset management. 鈥淩emoving woody debris helps reduce fire risk and supports the natural regeneration of the park's ecosystem.鈥�
The controlled burn will clear leftover slash and debris left behind after salvage and hazard tree removal. While smoke and flames may be visible from surrounding neighbourhoods, across Okanagan Lake, or within the park itself, RDCO is urging residents not to call 911 unless they see smoke or fire outside the park鈥檚 boundaries.
鈥淭his is a carefully planned and permitted operation,鈥� the RDCO said in a release. 鈥淓mergency officials are aware of the activity, and we appreciate the public鈥檚 patience and cooperation as we continue to restore one of our region鈥檚 most treasured natural spaces.鈥�
The park remains closed to the public for now.
For more information about fire damaged parks, the recovery process and progress visit the RDCO website.
