Knox Mountain Park/City of Kelowna

By Vernon Matters Staff

Perscribed burn

Kelowna prepares for first prescribed burn in Knox Mountain Park

Oct 2, 2025 | 9:51 AM

The City of Kelowna is set to conduct its first-ever controlled burn within city limits to reduce wildfire risk in Knox Mountain Park.

The Kelowna Fire Department and city parks staff, with support from the BC Wildfire Service, are planning an 11-hectare prescribed burn that could begin as early as Friday, Oct. 3, depending on weather conditions.

The one-day operation is intended to clear built-up brush, fine fuels and woody debris while protecting nearby homes, park infrastructure and sensitive ecosystems.

“Reducing fuel loads in Knox Mountain Park is a proactive step to protect nearby homes and preserve the park’s natural beauty,” said Assistant Fire Chief Dennis Craig. “Prescribed fire is one of the most effective tools we have to lower wildfire risk while supporting ecosystem health.”

Although new to Kelowna, similar burns have been successfully completed in Kamloops, Cranbrook and Lake Country. Fire crews and parks staff will monitor the site during the burn and continue patrols over the following weekend.

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Urban Forestry Supervisor Todd Cashin said controlled fire also benefits local ecosystems by opening the canopy and returning nutrients to the soil.

Strict monitoring of weather, fire behaviour and smoke will guide ignition and ensure the fire stays contained. Mop-up work and assessments will continue for up to two weeks. The project is funded through a Municipal Climate Resiliency Grant from Intact Financial Corporation.

Smoke will be visible throughout the park and surrounding neighbourhoods. Residents, especially those with respiratory conditions, are advised to stay indoors, limit outdoor activity and monitor air quality updates.

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