Harrop Creek Wildfire grows to 650 hectares, still no threat to communities
By Nelson Daily Staff
Despite continuing to grow — the Harrop Creek wildfire is now estimated by BC Wildfire Service at 650 hectares — the blaze remains approximately 16.5 kilometers from said Nelson Fire Chief Len MacCharles.
MacCharles, who took a fly-over the wildfire Tuesday morning, said the fire grew in size Monday evening which resulted in a significant smoke plume that was visible from many locations including the City of Nelson.
The smoke plume prompted numerous calls from the public to BC Wildfire and Nelson Fire & Rescue Services regarding the fire and the potential threat to Nelson and surrounding area.
“I have been in contact with the Southeast Fire Centre and BC Wildfire Specialists from the 4-Mile Office for the past few days discussing the potential impacts to Nelson and its water supply” said Chief MacCharles.
“BC Wildfire has been very helpful in sharing information so we can understand the risk and take necessary steps if warranted. This morning they took me on a fly-over so I could see first-hand what they are dealing with and how the fire does not currently present a threat to any communities or infrastructure.”
MacCharles said the flight with the BC Wildfire specialist took about 45 minutes.
He said although at times the Harrop Creek wildfire, which started from lightning, may appear just over the mountain, the distance between the Nelson Airport and the fire is about nine nautical miles or 16.5 kilomters. MacCharles said BC Wildfire crews have been working to keep the fire from moving towards any communities.
MacCharles said the current size and movement of the fire does not present a threat to Nelson or Nelson’s water supply and Wildfire crews continue to work on the fire from the ground and the air. There are a number of drainages areas, rock slides and old burn areas that the fire would have to travel through to cause us concern at this point.
BC Wildfire has 20 firefighters on the ground working the Harrop Creek wildfire and on helicopter in the air.
BC Wildfire Serivice said the helicopter is maintaining the objectives of this fire today while ground crews work with heavy equipment to build guard on this fire.
“I believe we are in good hands with BC Wildfire and we will stay in contact, if things change we will keep residents informed,” MacCharles said.
“Our more immediate concern is for Nelson residents and those living nearby to remain vigilant in preventing fires from happening and to notify us if the see any fire or smoke so we can deal with it quickly. We have firefighters on duty 24 hours a day and will act swiftly to address any fire issues.”
Nelson Fire & Rescue Services extinguished a burning log in a wooded area last week due to a concerned resident walking along the BNR Trail calling in the strong smell of smoke.
