File Photo (Image Credit: BC Wildfire Service)
Prescribed Burn

Large pile-burning project planned north of Kamloops

Oct 2, 2026 | 1:32 PM

KAMLOOPS — Smoke may be visible from Kamloops for the next few months as a prescribed burn of between 120 and 150 debris piles at Harper Mountain Ski Hill could start as early as Monday (Oct. 5).

The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) said its crews will conduct the burn to get rid of debris that came from falling and thinning of trees at the ski hill.

BCWS officials said the project will reduce fuel accumulation and mitigate wildfire risks around Harper Mountain, with the added benefit of providing training experiences for staff.

While the plan is to begin burning operation on Monday, that could change.

“The exact timing of this burn will depend on weather and site conditions, but it could begin as early as Oct. 5,” said the BCWS.

“Burning will proceed if conditions are suitable and allow for smoke dispersal during burn operations, though smoke may also linger in the following days.”

Officials said smoke may be visible from the Paul lake area, and potentially north of Highway 1 in Kamloops’ Dallas/Barnhartvale neighborhoods.

The BCWS had a similar pile burning project at Harper Mountain Ski Hill in the spring.