Why not let some fires burn?
Why are we so afraid of grassland fires?
They are nature’s way of revitalizing and rejuvenating our dry ecosystems.
Look at the lush new growth after a fire and think of the reduced fire hazard in those areas, which lasts for many years.
Given the high fuel loads in our valleys, when a grass fire starts, why don’t we dispatch our crews to protect people and property and let the fire burn to those lines?
Mother Nature will reduce the hazard and provide wildlife with fresh forage.
Perhaps we should look at a more proactive grassland hazard-reduction program during the spring, when we have some influence over conditions.
Tom Rankin
Kamloops