Chipping work underway in the Paul Lake area in Oct. 2024. (Image Credit: Thompson-Nicola Regional District)
FireSmart Chipping

TNRD to host free chipping days in rural communities

May 24, 2026 | 1:09 PM

KAMLOOPS — The Thompson-Nicola Regional District (TNRD) FireSmart program is kicking off several weeks of free chipping events in rural communities across the region.

The TNRD said these chipping events allow people to dispose of yard waste for free while reducing wildfire risks on residents’ properties.

The upcoming chipping days are:

  • Monday, May 25: Big Bar and Brookmere
  • Wednesday, May 27: Spences Bridge and Lac Le Jeune/ Walloper Lake
  • Tuesday, June 2: Heffley Lake
  • Tuesday, June 9: Knutsford and Rivershore
  • Tuesday, July 7: Knouff Lake
  • Monday, July 13: Loon Lake

“Residents are encouraged to clear out brush, branches, deadfall, and trimmings,” said TNRD officials.

“Brush must be clean and free of dirt and rocks, and woody debris must be no larger than approximately five inches in diameter.”

The TNRD asks residents to place debris at the end of their driveway the night before pickup. You can make pickup easier by stacking wood and butt ends facing the road.

Regional government officials said they are open to hosting more chipping events upon request.

“TNRD chipping day events are funded through the TNRD FireSmart program, which is a grant-funded program through the Province of B.C.,” said the TNRD.

“Community groups within TNRD Electoral Areas interested in having a chipping day in their local area can contact TNRD FireSmart staff at 250-377-6326 or firesmart@tnrd.ca.”

The TNRD FireSmart program also offers incentives to rural home owners, including free assessments and rebates of up to $1,000 for fire mitigation work.

You can learn more about the TNRD’s FireSmart programs, events and find resources here.