The District of Invermere has issued a Wildfire Risk Reduction Notice about an upcoming prescribed burn along the eastern side of the CastleRock subdivision.

This wildfire risk reduction project involves a prescribed burn led by the BC Wildfire Service and supported by Invermere Fire Rescue and the Ministry of Forests.

The planned ignition on District Lot 4616 will treat 24.1 hectares of land within an allowable burn area of 49.3 hectares, as part of a broader, strategic wildfire management approach

The burn is tentatively scheduled between September 15 and September 30, with the potential to extend as late as October 10, depending on favourable weather and site conditions to ensure both safety and effectiveness.

Once initiated, the burn is expected to occur over a 48-hour period, followed by three to five days of mop-up and site monitoring.

If conditions are not suitable this fall, the project may be postponed to spring 2026.

What to expect

Residents and travelers can expect to see smoke and flames in the area during operations. Smoke may remain visible for several days after the burn concludes. If smoke is expected to settle overnight and impact visibility, electronic signboards may be used to provide advance warning. If “black-lining” (preparatory ignitions) is initiated, it will be communicated as the official start of the burn.

Prescribed burning is an important tool to support forest health and wildfire risk reduction. It helps safely reduce the buildup of hazardous fuels, enhance ecosystem resilience, and restore natural fire cycles. Ultimately, these efforts aim to protect surrounding communities from the impacts of severe wildfires.

Dedicated crews from Invermere Fire Rescue and the BC Wildfire Service will be actively managing the operation to ensure public safety at all times.

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To support residents sensitive to smoke, a public smoke-free refuge will be made available during smoky conditions. The Invermere Columbia Valley Centre is being considered as the host location, but the exact site will be confirmed closer to the event. This space may operate with extended hours, similar to a cooling centre, to provide a safe indoor environment.

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→ Stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed.

→ Use a portable air cleaner (commercial or well-built DIY).

→ Limit prolonged or strenuous outdoor activity.

→ Manage existing medical conditions and seek care if symptoms worsen.

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→ Smoke can irritate the eyes and respiratory system.

→ It may worsen pre-existing heart or lung conditions.

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