BC Hydro says it is using drones to monitor its Site C slash piles for hotspots.
A previously burned pile flared up and reignited on Thursday (April 23), 13 kilometres upstream from the dam site outside Fort St. John.
Contractors were extinguishing the fire by helicopter.
BC Hydro says it is using drones to monitor for other hotspots in slash piles throughout the Peace River valley and along Highway 29, where crews continue clearing activities for the future reservoir and road realignment.
“The drones that residents have seen flying around are part of our debris burning due diligence to help identify hot spots among previously burned piles using infrared cameras,” said spokesman Dave Conway.
“If a hot spot is identified we inspect that pile and may complete additional measures to help prevent burn pile re-ignitions.”
The number of hotspots wasn't immediately available as the program just started, Conway said.
Most open burning activities, including Category 2 and 3 fires, are currently prohibited until June 15 to reduce the likelihood of human-caused wildfires.
No new fires can be started and no additional material may be added to existing fires, with the exception of campfires.
BC Hydro finished its burn program on April 15, one day before the restrictions came into force.
BC Hydro says it is also working with the Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure, contractors, and the Wildfire Response Branch “to develop enhanced monitoring of burn piles.”
