We were lucky this week. The wildfire burning only 13 kilometres east of Squamish is now 75 per cent contained and, as of press time, it looks like the situation is under control.
But the blaze was classified as “out of control,” growing to 3.5 hectares in size – that’s almost nine acres – and reached within four kilometres of Ring Creek, an off-grid community of around 40 to 60 residents.
And let’s not forget about all the resources that had to be used – air tankers, a 20-person ground crew and heavy machinery.
The hot weather is making our forests dry, so when is it time to close off the backcountry to the public?
The wildfire was caused by a person, according to BC Wildfire Service. Was it a hiker? A climber? A mountain biker? One of the many illegal campers in the area? We don’t know.
Unfortunately, this summer fire has been easy to ignite, be it a cigarette butt dropped on the forest floor, a piece of glass left out in direct sunlight or, irresponsibly, a camp fire started despite the ban.
Plus, the forecast calls for hot and dry weather into next week, with temperatures looming in the high-20s and low-30s.
With all these factors in place, the decision to close the backcountry to the public is made by the Province, which considers the fire danger and characteristics of the region before deciding on a course of action. As of press time, the forest around Squamish is still open, but this could change.
The District of Squamish follows the province’s lead to ensure co-ordination, said Fire Chief Bill Stoner.
“To move independently towards a closure on DOS lands would create a great deal of confusion, as many trails and logging roads flow in and out of provincial lands,” he added.
“Public safety and protection of our community values (recreation assets, infrastructure, watershed, property, etc.) are top priority.”
He said the fire department’s primary concern is to protect lives and property and, while there would be an economic impact and public inconvenience if the backcountry was closed, this is not a significant factor in decision making.
So, while concerned residents await a decision from the Province, everyone enjoying the backcountry should be aware that even the smallest mistake can lead to a dangerous wildfire – and that time we might not be able to contain it as quickly.
