Several large wildfire risk reduction projects across the Thompson-Okanagan have received significant funding.
The Forest Enhancement Society of BC (FESBC) is investing $1.1 million in three projects in West Kelowna, the Thompson region and Summerland.
Across the province, the society has invested in 12 new projects to reduce wildfire risk while enhancing wildlife habitat and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Westbank First Nation’s Ntityix Resources LP has received $613,512 to thin and prune the forest in the Glenrosa area of West Kelowna.
The District of Summerland will begin planning for future wildfire fuel reduction treatments with the help of a $391,619 investment.
The Lower North Thompson Community Forest Society has received $124,830 for post-harvest piling and debris removal near Barriere.
“Wildfire risk reduction treatments can get very costly, and the funding from FESBC is critical in ensuring that we are able to reduce the risk of devastation from wildfires for our community forest and our communities,” states Mike Francis, registered professional forester, Lower North Thompson Community Forest Society.
Since about 2017, the FESBC has approved more than 260 projects in 120 communities across the province which has produced more than 2,100 full-time jobs.
The society has approved a total of 34 new wildfire risk reduction projects to be completed by March 2024.
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