The forested areas and trails of Mission’s Fraser River Heritage Park Westminster Abbey have been closed until further notice due to extreme wildfire risk.
The city posted a notification on July 28, one day after Mission’s tree farm was ordered to close on July 27 by Fire Chief Mark Goddard.
RCMP and BC Conservation Officers, firefighters and local bylaw enforcement officers will be establishing a checkpoint on Florence Lake Forest Service Road over the upcoming long weekend, turning away vehicles not heading to designated campsites or the Hydro Boat Launch.
“No other activities are permitted in the area until the fire hazard is significantly reduced. There will also be regular patrols of the area, and anyone in violation of the closure will be asked to leave the area,” says the city’s website.
“For the safety of our community, please respect this temporary closure and the individuals stationed at the checkpoint and on patrols.”
The city has also sent out warnings that RCMP and conservation officers will be handing out $1,150 fines to people having campfires around Stave Lake over the weekend – “No exceptions.”
Another heatwave is expected to hit today and last through Saturday night, with temperatures reaching low 30s.
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patrick.penner@missioncityrecord.com
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