East Kootenay communities gear up for wildfire season with new funding

Local municipalities are forging new steps to keep their residents safe this upcoming wildfire season, with a combined investment from the B.C. government and the Columbia Basin Trust.

More than $3 million has been awarded to 23 organizations to implement FireSmart measures in their communities.

Kris Belanger, senior manager of delivery and benefits for the Trust, says these programs help residents stay safe as wildfire threats continue to grow.

“Projects like these help communities stay healthy, act proactively and adapt to the realities of a changing climate,” said Belanger. “This includes managing fuels, planning how to respond if a wildfire hits, or helping residents understand what they can do to reduce risk around their own properties.”

The District of Invermere is developing fuel management prescriptions for 56 hectares of hillside surrounding neighbourhoods and local recreation areas.

“By completing prescription development, archaeological assessments and invasive species surveys ahead of time, the District of Invermere can move directly into treatment when opportunities arise,” said Cass Dearlove, FireSmart Coordinator.

Cranbrook and Kimberley are using their funds to carry out prescribed burns around their respective areas, while Sparwood will be cutting down fuel on 13 hectares of municipal land.

Funding will also go to public education in all three communities.