Wildfire season leads to cancellation of Pacific Forest Rally

In 2020, the Pacific Forest Rally was cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2021, the devastating wildfire season has caused the event to once again cancel.

“This summer has seen record wildfire activity in BC, and despite lowering fire danger ratings expected through September and October, two thirds of our stage distance is currently subject to an “Area Restriction Order” by forestry which prevents its use for the rally. It’s not just fire suppression for the currently active fires, but also fire rehabilitation and bridge replacements, as well as the risk from post-fire treefall on both stage and transit,” says Organizer Paul Westwick.

The rally organizer have also been advised they may not have access to the back-country roads until at least next summer.

“In addition to that, the current COVID-19 restrictions in the Interior Health Region make it impossible to run the event safely without violating the outdoor gathering limits. The Province’s modeling indicates that they are not expecting significant improvement before October, so it is unlikely that these restrictions would be lifted in time for the rally,” added Westwick.

Planning is already underway for the rally to return to the Nicola Valley in 2022.

“I want to thank everyone who has worked hard trying to make this event happen, and all of the support from local businesses and the people at Tourism Nicola Valley, who were looking forward to us bringing lots of people into town for a fun weekend. We love Merritt, and we will be back!” concluded Westwick.