By Tom Mark

Forest Enhancement Funding To Wildfire Scarred Regions

Apr 6, 2018 | 10:32 AM

The provincial government is awarding 134 million dollars to 71 forest enhancement projects around BC.

The funding from the Forest Enhancement Society of B.C. is to restore damaged forests and support communities that were affected by last year’s wildfires.

Over 99 million of it is going to the Cariboo region that was greatly affected by the fires.

The Thompson- Okanagan will get just under four and a half million dollars.

In making the announcement, Premier John Horgan said the aim is to benefit ecosystems, workers and the communities that rely on forestry for their livelihood.

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In the Cariboo, the majority of the money will be focused on forest enhancement and restoration of public forests impacted by the 2017 wildfires.

Approximately 30% of the work will involve, or be led by, First Nations and their partners.

The funding includes $65 million for the Forest Carbon Initiative, which supports projects such as increased planting density, incremental reforestation, improved utilization and enhanced fertilization to grow and store forest carbon, reduce emissions and deliver greenhouse gas benefits.

“Forestry supports tens of thousands of workers and families throughout the province,” said Doug Donaldson, Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. “Today’s funding will help support B.C.’s economy and our environment.”

“We’re pleased to able to award funding toward FESBC’s five purposes to projects throughout the province that will benefit forest workers and communities, ecosystems and wildlife habitat,” said Wayne Clogg, chair, Forest Enhancement Society of B.C.

“The funding provided by FESBC helps to restore and enhance B.C.’s Crown forests, providing a tremendous benefit for future generations.”

The Forest Enhancement Society of B.C. was set up specifically to advance the environmental and resource stewardship of British Columbia’s forests.

by Tom Mark