Rocky Point Prescribed Burn Tentatively Planned for October 2–3
Metchosin, BC – October 1, 2026 — The District of Metchosin is advising residents that the Department of National Defence (DND), Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Esquimalt, in partnership with the BC Wildfire Service (BCWS), Natural Resources Canada and other agencies, is tentatively planning to conduct a category 4, prescribed burn at Rocky Point in Metchosin between October 2 and 3, 2026.
The prescribed burn remains contingent on suitable weather conditions and site-specific fire indices. Recent rainfall has resulted in wetter conditions, and if additional rainfall is received at the site during Wednesday and Thursday, the operation will likely be postponed or cancelled.
Due to the less-than-ideal burning conditions, the planned treatment area has been reduced to approximately 10 hectares of open grassland containing invasive shrub species.
What residents can expect
If the prescribed burn proceeds, smoke may be visible from Metchosin and surrounding communities. Smoke is an expected component of a prescribed burning operation and, by itself, does not indicate that an uncontrolled wildfire is occurring.
The timing and final decision to proceed will be determined by the agencies responsible for the prescribed burn based on weather, fuel and site conditions.
The District of Metchosin Fire Department is aware of the planned operation and will continue to coordinate with DND, BC Wildfire Service and the other participating agencies.
Residents are encouraged to remain aware of the planned activity and to monitor District communications for any updates regarding the status of the prescribed burn.
The prescribed burn will only proceed if conditions are determined to be suitable and safe.