As the cedar sawmill fire continues to burn in McBride, crews have made progress according to the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George.
A nearby mulch pile caught in the blaze has been brought down by crews, but it is predicted to remain active for another week.
Manager of External Relations with the Regional District of Fraser-Fort George Renee McCloskey says the lengthy process in containing the fire should come as no surprise.
“When the remainder of that fire is in that mulch pile I think everyone is well aware of the time it takes for that to be extinguished but as far as suppression work and efforts to bring that pile down, we’re very pleased with the progress that’s been made.”
The property owner and some employees will now take over the task of dousing the mulch pile fire.
Training is being provided and the site will continue to be monitored by the McBride District Volunteer Fire Department and the BC Wildfire Service.
McCloskey adds they couldn’t be more pleased with the number of fire crews that have helped out.
“We’ve had tremendous support and certainly want to recognize the volunteer fire departments, certainly those from McBride but also those who supported their department from all around the region as well as crews from the BC Wildfire Service that have been on hand.”
There’s still no immediate threat to the public or surrounding environment; the fire began Wednesday, April 5th at 5 AM.
BREAKING: #McBride cedar sawmill burns down; no reported injuries | https://t.co/CLpkw108G2 #NorthernBC pic.twitter.com/WVZijmDYR1
— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) April 5, 2017