Duteau Creek watershed (photo courtesy of Tolko / RDNO)

By Liam Verster

Greater Vernon

RDNO seeks grant to install fire detection weather station

Feb 22, 2024 | 2:00 PM

The Regional District of North Okanagan is seeking financial support to protect against wildfires in one of Greater Vernon’s main watersheds.

A staff report to the RDNO board of directors requested approval to seek a grant to install a Fixed Remote Automated Weather Station in the Duteau Creek Watershed, southwest of Vernon.

The district would apply for a grant of up to $30,000 for the installation through the Okanagan Basin Water Board’s 2024 water conservation and quality improvement program.

The report stated the automated weather station “contains standard weather station requirements but is specifically geared towards early wildfire weather detection,” noting the systems were being installed in multiple other areas of the Okanagan.

The theme of the OBWB 2024 grants is “drought resilience,” and the report stated this project fits that requirement as it monitors for fire weather, including air temperature, humidity and precipitation.

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It was noted the funding would help offset the costs of installing the weather station, which is estimated at $110,000.

The report said RDNO staff would also apply for a grant through the Union of B.C. Municipalities Emergency Preparedness Fund for the remaining $80,000, adding if funds through that stream were not granted, then other revenue sources would be investigated.

The installation of the fire weather station would fit within the regional growth strategy and address concerns of water supply and water system risks resulting from climate change and natural disasters.

The District of Lake Country will also be asked for a letter of support to accompany the grant application.

The deadline to apply for the grant funding is Friday, Feb. 23.