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Possible mortar found in Coldstream provincial park

Trail at Kal Lake Provincial Park closed after discovery of potential unexploded ordnance
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A trail in Kalamalka Lake Province Park has been closed for the time being after the discovery Thursday morning, Feb. 8, of a possible unexploded ordnance. (RCMP photo)

A popular hiking trail in Coldstream’s Kalamalka Provincial Park has been closed until further notice following the discovery of a possible unexploded ordnance.

A crew working on fuel mitigation located what appeared to be the tail fin of a mortar sticking out of the ground just off the Sidewinder Trail in the Cosens Bay area of Kal Park Thursday morning, Feb. 8.

Police were called and officers remain at the scene which has been cordoned off to ensure public safety.

“The area historically had been a training area for the military and used as a firing range for mortars and other ordnance,” said Const. Chris Terleski, media relations officer for the Vernon North Okanagan RCMP.

“Similar items have been found in the past by park users. We’ve consulted with our RCMP Explosives Disposal Unit and given the fact that the item is believed to be of military origin, we have secured the area and are awaiting direction from the Canadian Forces.”

Officers will remain on scene to keep people away from the area.

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Roger Knox

About the Author: Roger Knox

I am a journalist with more than 30 years of experience in the industry. I started my career in radio and have spent the last 21 years working with Black Press Media.
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