Top Results For: okanagan forest task force

Tresnich said the terrain is challenging for searchers, who are using UTV's and ATV's in addition to being on foot.

Last year from May to October between Kelowna and Lake Country the OFTF responded to multiple calls for service.

Including that 800 pounds, the task force said it collected 255,184 pounds of rubbish since Jan 1: 103,660 pounds of garbage and 151,524 pounds of metal.

Along with a lack of rain, forecasters are worried about drought conditions when the weather warms up, which could lead to stronger wildfires.

Fuel mitigation, among other measures, is what West Kelowna Fire Chief's Jason Brolund has been advocating for years.

'We only have one backcountry and we need to preserve what we have because once it’s gone, it’s gone,' task force spokesperson Kane Blake said.

British Columbia is home to thousands of news stories every year. Here are some of the more interesting stories that took place in 2023.

British Columbia's 2023 wildfires were a life-changing disaster for many, and their impact has echoed into the holiday season.

Burning garbage, dilapidated trailers, metal, human excrement and "tons" more refuse of varying origin are what those who tread into a South Okanagan encampment find.

It was a perfect example of being at the right place at the right time. Rod Tribiger managed to save a life that evening, something he’ll never forget.

The group gathered along Highway 97 in Peachland during the day to turn attention to the issues facing area forests and kept the attention on the matter throughout the night.

"A second crossing is something that people have felt very passionate about," said Steve Sirett, district manager with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure. 

Located just north of Summerland, Monday’s large slide has forced motorists travelling between Kelowna and Penticton to take lengthy detours.

For Rose Ridge Park residents like Joey Gidda, flames came right up onto his property, burning parts of his fence, but fortunately did not reach his home.

As crews have been able to better access the fire-damaged areas, they've updated the number of partially or completely destroyed properties to 189 from 181.

"Some of these hazards include downed power lines, unstable structures, dangerous trees, equipment and debris in the area and hazardous materials," O'Rourke said. 

The restrictions, first implemented Saturday, will remain in effect for West Kelowna, while officials are still urging people to stay away from Lake Country and the North Shuswap.

As wildfires grip western and northern regions of Canada, the smoke is projected to spread across the Prairie provinces into the weekend, and potentially further east.

Up to 2,500 people have been forced from their homes and officials are warning of a "difficult" night of falling ash and embers where flames appear "right on top" of the community.

As of Thursday, four of the province's 34 water basins were in Level 5 drought conditions: Fort Nelson, the Bulkley Valley, West Vancouver Island and East Vancouver Island.