Province funds projects to prevent wildfires

Jul 7, 2022 | 3:07 PM

The provincial government is taking steps to mitigate the risks of wildfires spreading in B.C.

As above seasonal temperatures are expected in the coming weeks, bringing with a higher risk of wildfires, the province is investing in projects to reduce wildfire risk, enhance wildlife habitat, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and increase forest recreation and ecological resilience.

The province has allocated $25 million for community projects, which will be provided through the Forest Enhancement Society of B.C. (FESBC).

“Last year, we saw just how devastating fire season can be to communities and how critical it is to invest in wildfire prevention,” said Katrine Conroy, Minister of Forests.

“Cultural and prescribed burning and forest thinning are proven approaches to reduce wildfire risks. I recently visited Williams Lake and saw first-hand how the Forest Enhancement Society of B.C. is working with its partners to deliver projects like these and help build more resilient communities.”

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The funds can support an array of community projects such as harvesting or removing beetle or fire-damaged trees; thinning trees, removing underbrush, pruning trees, managing fuel loads; and creating emergency wildfire escape routes for communities.

“Working with local communities to reduce their wildfire risks makes a lot of sense because they know how to manage their forests to achieve numerous co-benefits to create win-win projects,” said Steve Kozuki, executive director, FESBC.

“They are not only protecting their communities, but at the same time with the same funding, they also enhance wildlife habitat, create recreation opportunities, increase ecological resiliency of forests, use the biomass to make green energy, and more.”

The $25 million is a component of the $359 million announced in Budget 2022 to protect British Columbians from wildfires.

Additionally, people who want to take steps to protect themselves, their loved ones and their properties from wildfires can find more information at the B.C. FireSmart website.

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by Liam Verster

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