Kamloops residents worry dead trees could raise wildfire risk

Some residents in Kamloops’ Juniper Ridge neighbourhood are worried that trees stripped by a Douglasfir tussock moth infestation could increase wildfire danger near their homes. The affected trees were seen turning brown and losing needles on private land above the community, which sits near forested areas and includes hiking and biking trails. Residents said the timing is especially troubling after a severe wildfire season in British Columbia and past evacuations in the area. Wildfire expert Mike Flannigan said dead trees can help fires spread, and officials confirmed they are seeing higher moth activity this year. Forestry and city staff are monitoring the outbreak, which can last one to two years, while saying spraying is only effective at a certain stage in the larva’s life cycle. Fire officials are urging homeowners to reduce risk around their properties by following FireSmart guidance.