Home • News • Community Update – Planned pile burning around McGregor and Bradley Creek areas

Community Update – Planned pile burning around McGregor and Bradley Creek areas

November 24, 2025

November 24th, 2025

Okanagan Indian Band has been notified by Tolko that pile burning is planned in the McGregor and Bradley Creek (above Blacktown) areas adjacent to the community over the coming weeks. This notice is being shared now to give members advance awareness.

When could burning start?

Burning could begin as early as December 5 (weather and venting conditions permitting).

Where will the burning take place?

· A couple of piles near McGregor

· An estimated minimum of two days of pile burning in the Bradley area (above Blacktown), depending on how well the piles burn

Venting & Daily Decisions

· Burning will only occur when venting conditions are suitable to allow smoke to disperse.

· Tolko typically receives venting information at 4:00 pm the day before.

· Based on that information, they will confirm burning plans and notify OKIB the evening before crews are sent out.

What community members can expect

· Smoke and Flames may be visible in and around the community on active burn days.

· You may notice increased activity and presence of contract crews in the McGregor and Bradley areas.

· Burning is being done to reduce fuel loads and wildfire risk by removing debris left from forestry operations.

Health & Safety

Community members who are sensitive to smoke (e.g., elders, young children, or those with heart and lung conditions) may wish to take extra precautions on days when burning is active, such as:

· Limiting time outdoors when smoke is heavy

· Keeping windows and doors closed

· Using indoor air filtration if available

Further Updates

OKIB will share short-notice updates (e.g., via Official Okanagan Indian Band Facebook group, OKIB.ca and our OKIB App) when we receive evening confirmation that burning will occur the following day.

If you have questions or concerns about these planned burns, please contact:

Territorial Stewardship Division (TSD)
Okanagan Indian Band
250-542-7132
colleen.marchand@okanagan.org