New industrial park near Burns Bog won't raise fire risk, says developer

The company that wants to build a 62-hectare industrial park west of Highway 91 near Burns Bog says the proposed project will not create a fire risk.

This comes as fire crews continue to douse hot spots after a wildfire nearly 80 hectares in size broke out in the bog on July 3.

In a statement on its website, MK Delta Lands Group says it's working with bog experts and the Delta Fire Department on a wildfire management plan.

"We have worked extensively with recognized bog specialists to ensure that development of this site is not going to negatively affect the surrounding water level," it said in the statement.

"Our drainage design will increase and improve water levels at the driest part of the year, while maintaining surface waters throughout the year."

The company says its design includes a controlled weir system that could be used to adjust water levels to lower wildfire danger ratings.

MK Delta Lands Group says the project will also create jobs and pump millions of dollars into the local economy.

Included in the proposal is the donation of a section of land that is roughly three times as large as the proposed industrial park.

Critics aren't convinced

The industrial park would be outside the designated protected zone but it would still be located close to the Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area.

Despite reassurances from the developer that the project will meet the highest environmental standards, the Burns Bog Conservation Society remains firmly opposed.

"Just how stupid do they think we are?" said society president Eliza Olson.

"There is a risk here all the time if we don't keep the water table up. I have to give the Corporation of Delta credit, they're working very hard to keep the water table up in the conservation area."

Olson said her group started a petition that has now collected about 2,000 signatures.

The proposal will go to a public hearing on July 26.