The Department of National Defence is doing some early spring cleaning at CFB Esquimalt, west of Victoria.

A news release from the department says nearly seven hectares of encroaching evergreen trees and invasive plants such a broom and gorse have been cut back or torn out at the Rocky Point property.

The work will improve and restore the area, support habitat for rare native plants and also upgrade military training areas at the base.

Large piles of debris are scheduled for controlled burning between tomorrow and the middle of next month and the military says the burning could create noticeable smoke, but fires will only be set when weather conditions and the air quality index are favourable.