From today until May 31st, Parks Canada is planning prescribed fires in three different areas of Riding Mountain National Park (RMNP). So don't be alarmed if you see smoke coming from the park as this is likely the reason why.
The three zones are:
• South Lake Prescribed Fire - 263 hectare area located along the western shores of Clear Lake with boundaries along RR 354, and Frith Road.
• Lake Katherine Prescribed Fire - 100 hectare area along Bogey Creek between Highway 10 and Grey Owl Trail.
• Menzie Prescribed Fire - 11,000 hectare area surrounding Whitewater Lake, Menzie Lake, and Peden Prairie.
The prescribed fires act as a preventative measure against severe wildfires and they improve the ecological condition of the areas where they are set. More information about Parks Canada's fire management program can be found here.