UPDATE (September 24, 2026): The ignitions for this burn are now complete. See the update here.
kiʔsuʔk kyukyit q̓apiniskiⱡ,
As early as September 22, 2026, ʔaq̓am Lands Department will be conducting a prescribed burn north of Mission Wycliffe Road (see TU4, the purple area on the map). This burn will be carried out in collaboration with the BC Wildfire Service, City of Cranbrook, and supporting contractors, with the purpose of protecting and stewarding ʔaq̓am lands through reducing the risk of future wildfires.
The prescribed burn area has been divided into units to maximize community participation, and minimize smoke as much as possible. Units south of Mission Wycliffe Road will be not be burned until Spring 2027 at the earliest.
Depending on weather and site conditions, work could begin as early as September 22, 2026 on TU4 (highlighted in purple).
Smoke may be visible throughout the community and surrounding areas, however, mitigation efforts will be used to reduce smoke as much as possible.
Burn unit size is 1/25 the size of 2023 airport pasture burn; there will be less smoke generated in the area than was experienced in the last prescribed burn.
- Burning will only proceed if conditions are suitable to achieve objectives and allow for appropriate smoke dispersal, though smoke may linger in the following days, particularly the morning after burn operations.
- Despite all smoke management precautions, unintended smoke impacts are possible after any burn.
- This prescribed burn is 1/25 the size of the 2023 prescribed burn – there is expected to be very little impact from smoke.
- Burning will not impact any travel along Mission Wycliffe or Airport Access Rd.
Updates will be provided as needed during the prescribed burn, and ʔaq̓am will update you once confirmation of the following next phases:
- Notice 1 day prior to any prescribe burn ignitions.
- Notice when ignitions have been completed and mop up and patrol are to proceed.
- Notice when fire is fully extinguished and declared “out”.
If you are sensitive to smoke or concerned about air quality conditions, resources and support is available at the ʔaq̓am Health and Wellness Centre for all community members, as needed.
- Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
For more information on wildfire smoke impacts and how you can protect yourself, visit the BC Centre for Disease Control.
Questions? Please contact:
Will Kaufman, Forestry Stewardship Manager
wkaufman@aqam.net / (236) 703-9542