The Columbia Basin Trust (CBT) has provided over $1.6 million to 34 projects aimed at helping communities prevent and respond to wildfires.
This round of CBT grants can be used to purchase equipment, pay for training training and and cover strategic planning costs.
“Planning and preparation are key to helping communities stay safe during wildfires,” said Hannah Holden, Delivery of Benefits Senior Manager.
“Every piece of equipment purchased or person trained strengthens our region’s ability to respond effectively, protecting homes, properties and community assets while respecting the ecological role of fire in our forests.”
Highlights from some of the projects can be found below.
Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) – Columbia Valley – $250,000
The RDEK will use its grant to buy a Structure Protection Unit, including a trailer and equipment.
The unit will be shared between Windermere, Fairmont, Edgewater and Panorama fire departments.
Structure Protection Units include pumps, hoses, sprinklers and attachments to help minimize wildfire damage to homes and other buildings.
“Our firefighters have the training. Now is the time for more equipment to help defend our communities,” said Jon Tames, Deputy Fire Chief.
“The Structure Protection Unit will enable our firefighters across the Columba Valley to have the additional resources needed to address the interface and wildfire threats to our communities.”
Regional District of Kootenay Boundary (RDKB) – Fruitvale, Montrose, Warfield and area – $88,100
Trust officials say the RDKB will purchase wildfire prevention and protection equipment with its grant.
This will include hoses, nozzles, adapters and valves for use in Fruitvale, Montrose, Warfield and the surrounding areas.
“Increasing the capability for our firefighters to respond to wildland fires positively impacts life safety, property conservation and environmental conservation,” said Glen Gallamore, Deputy Fire Chief.
“This equipment also provides a higher level of safety for our first responders, citizens and visitors.”
Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it First Nation – $58,000
The CBT says the Yaq̓it ʔa·knuqⱡi’it First Nation is using its grant to acquire wildfire prevention and protection equipment to upgrade its Structure Protection Unit.
The Nation’s grant will also cover the costs of training its wildfire fighters, with some set to attend the FireSmart BC Wildfire Resiliency and Training Summit.
“Our service has been steadily increasing its experience with fighting fires,” said Arthur Joseph Reszka, Fire & Emergency Services Officer.
“This project will benefit our community by appropriately equipping our Structure Protection Unit in case of (and with anticipation of) wildfire risk, namely by enhancing and extending our preparedness and response.”
You can see a full list of the projects set to receive funding and their total grant amount here.
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