File photo. (Image Credit: CFJC Today)

By Elora McCormack

Pile Burning

Pair of prescribed burn projects planned near Lillooet and Lytton

Mar 20, 2026 | 10:09 AM

LYTTON, B.C. — The BC Wildfire Service (BCWS) is working with the Xwísten Indian Band and Cascades Natural Resource District on a pair of pyroculture projects.

The BCWS said the Cascades Natural Resource District will be conducting a fuel reduction burn north of Kumsheen Rafting Resort, adjacent to the property and Highway 1.

“Crews will be falling and burning dead trees affected by the mountain pine beetle and from previous fires. Felled trees and surface debris will be collected into 15 to 20 piles for burning,” BCWS said.

The project north of Lytton will reduce build up dead combustible material and remove forest fuels, reducing risks of future wildfires.

Smoke may be visible from Lytton, surrounding areas and to drivers travelling along highway 1.

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Meantime, the BCWS is supporting the Xwísten Indian Band in a pile burning project along the Moon Creek Forest Service Road (FSR), about two and a half kilometres southeast of Bridge River.

The project north of Lillooet will burn up to 40 piles with the goal of restoring forest health and removing beetle-infested trees.

Those in Bridge River, Lillooet and surrounding areas may see smoke from this burn.

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

The BCWS said the exact timing of both project will depend on local weather conditions, but it could begin as early as Friday (March 20).