Being Held
The wildfire that is threatening the farm has been reclassified as ‘Being Held’. This means that the 209 hectare fire is not expected to spread beyond it’s containment boundaries under current conditions. This is due to the tireless work of 60 firefighters and 2 helicopters that have been working around the clock to keep us safe.
Read about our preparations to keep the farm safe here.
The first photo shows our view of Mt. H’kusam on Day 1 of the fire, as the smoke from the fire started to travel up the valley. By Sunday much of the smoke had cleared and clouds brought welcome relief with a small amount of rain.
Two other fires have been reported on Vancouver Island, one that is now Under Control north of Stocking Creek and a larger Out-of-Control blaze near Cameron Lake.
We’re not Alone
According to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, there are currently 415 fires burning across the country. So far this year there have been 2,285 wildfires and approximately 37,000 square kilometres have been burned. With an early drought and little rain in sight. we need to do what we can to prevent fires and keep ourselves safe.
Ongoing Risks
I have been unpacking my emergency evacuation bags, but until fire is officially out there is always a risk that high winds could cause it to jump the containment. Today a campfire ban was implemented to keep everyone safe and reduce the risk of more fires.
These are pictures looking towards the forested area of the farm. They show the mass of very flammable conifer tree branches covering the ground from recent clear-cutting
I’m very concerned about a fire starting there from someone cutting firewood this summer. All it takes is one chainsaw spark or tossed cigarette.
Thank You
Thank you to all of our customers who have sent us well wishes over the last few days. We are going to keep the sale going even though the immediate risk of evacuation has passed. A very special thank you to all of the firefighters across the country who are risking their own health to keep us safe.