Wildfires Threatens Ancient Forest Near Prince George in B.C.
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Loading... - Adina Lewis
- 17 Jul 2024
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The B.C. Wildfire Service is currently battling a significant 10-hectare wildfire in Chun T’oh Whudujut Park, located approximately 115 kilometers east of Prince George. This park is home to what is known as the "only inland temperate rainforest in the world," featuring trees that are up to 1,000 years old. The fire poses a serious threat to this unique and ancient ecosystem.
The Ancient Forest is situated within the traditional territory of the Lheidli T’enneh First Nation. The park has been closed to the public as wildfire crews respond to multiple incidents within its boundaries. The largest of these fires spans 10 hectares.
The B.C. Wildfire Service has established a helipad and a water relay system to assist in firefighting efforts. However, the challenging terrain and the ecological and cultural significance of the area have made suppression efforts particularly difficult.
Current Wildfire Situation
Since Friday, five new wildfires have been ignited by lightning. These, combined with approximately a dozen other new fires, have brought the total number of active wildfires across the province to over 150. Southern B.C. remains especially vulnerable, with hot and dry conditions prevailing, and a risk of lightning expected to move east through the region. There is potential for dry lightning strikes in areas where forest fuels are already dry and susceptible to ignition.
Heat Warnings and Evacuations
Environment Canada has issued heat warnings for parts of the southern Interior, including the Fraser Canyon, Kelowna, Nelson, and Cranbrook. Two evacuation orders are currently in effect due to wildfires:
- The Fort Nelson First Nation’s Kahntah reserve, approximately 116 kilometers southeast of Fort Nelson.
- Parts of the District of Wells, east of Quesnel.
Despite the high number of active fires, the wildfire service no longer lists any "wildfires of note." These are typically fires that are highly visible or pose a significant threat to public safety or infrastructure.
The wildfire threatening Chun T’oh Whudujut Park underscores the urgent and ongoing challenges faced by B.C. as it battles numerous wildfires across the province. With critical ecological and cultural sites at risk, combined with harsh weather conditions, firefighting efforts are stretched thin as crews work tirelessly to protect both natural and human communities.
