Get the Top, Local stories delivered to your inbox! Click here to join the daily Vernon Matters newsletter.
The new Cherryville Firewatch Building (Image Credit: RDNO)
By Liam Verster
Wildfire Preparedness

New Firewatch Building open in Cherryville

Oct 23, 2026 | 10:00 AM

A new structure has been set up to help with fire responses in the North Okanagan.

The Regional District of North Okanagan said the Cherryville Firewatch Building had been completed and was now operational.’

The facility will provide a secure area to store firefighting equipment, as well as space to host training and educational opportunities.

The Cherry Ridge Management Committee Community Forest played a key role in delivering the Firewatch Building thanks to a $120,000 commitment toward construction.

That contribution was supported through an undisclosed amount provided through the Regional District of North Okanagan Area E Community Works Funding Program, which also would be used to support training and operations for the following two years.

Insight Into Local Economy
Business Walk held earlier in the week, findings will be released at a later date
24m ago
Wildfire Preparedness
New Firewatch Building open in Cherryville
44m ago
Fire Mitigation Work
Coldstream's FireSmart program generates more interest
1h ago

Those funds also ensured the facility was delivered without an increase to local taxation.

“This project demonstrates what can be achieved when a community comes together around a shared goal,” Jim Johnson, Director of RDNO Area E, stated.

“The commitment of volunteers, donors, and community partners has created a lasting resource that will help protect Cherryville residents and support wildfire preparedness going forward.”

The RDNO added the completion of the Firewatch Building marks a significant milestone in strengthening wildfire preparedness and enhancing community resilience.

by Liam Verster
View Comments

Recent Matters

Upgrades Needed
Bald Range wildfire victim calls for more pet-friendly housing
A family displaced by the Bald Range wildfire is urging landlords and the provincial government to improve access to pet-friendly housing after spending months separated from their four cats.The Hayman family lost their home in August and found temporary accommodation that accepted their two dogs. But finding housing f...
A few minutes ago
Read More
Insight Into Local Economy
Business Walk held earlier in the week, findings will be released at a later date
The annual Business Walk was held Tuesday, but it will still be a few months until there is a clear picture on the state of the local economy.The Business Walk saw representatives from the City of Vernon, Downtown Vernon Association, Greater Vernon Chamber of Commerce, Community Futures North Okanagan and Okanagan Coll...
26m ago
Read More
Wildfire Preparedness
New Firewatch Building open in Cherryville
A new structure has been set up to help with fire responses in the North Okanagan.The Regional District of North Okanagan said the Cherryville Firewatch Building had been completed and was now operational.'The facility will provide a secure area to store firefighting equipment, as well as space to host training and edu...
46m ago
Read More

What Matters

Insight Into Local Economy
Business Walk held earlier in the week, findings will be released at a later date
24m ago
Wildfire Preparedness
New Firewatch Building open in Cherryville
44m ago
Fire Mitigation Work
Coldstream's FireSmart program generates more interest
1h ago
Election Results
Lumby Mayor re-elected, still eying provincial seat
20h ago
Election Results
Area B Director re-elected, ready to forward major projects
21h ago