Whereas climate change brings us longer periods of drought and hotter temperatures in which Scotch Broom Cytisus Scoparious, a highly flammable invasive species with high oil content and dry branches, will thrive and act as a volatile flash fuel, increasing the risk of wildfires and specifically Urban Interface Fires; And whereas Scotch Broom spreads densely and rapidly, inhibiting forests regrowth, and negatively impacting agricultural production and native species, with a 2021 study for the Invasive Species Council of BC ISCBC designating Scotch broom as the Top Worse Offender - the invasive species doing the greatest harm to species at risk in BC: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM work with the Province to establish and implement actionable steps to control the aggressive spread of Scotch Broom all across BC, including implementing Broom-free fire breaks along long stretches of broom; And be it further resolved that local governments are encouraged to use bylaws and policies to control and manage Scotch Broom near and within urban boundaries.
Ministry of Forests The risks posed by invasive plant species, including Scotch broom, are well recognized by the province. Scotch broom is adapted to coastal and temperate climates and has spread throughout BCs coast and parts of the southeast interior. The high flammability of Scotch broom has been identified by Ministry Invasive Plant Specialists as a significant threat requiring action during implementation of Wildfire Risk Reduction programs, especially in urban interface areas. These specialists are working with the BC Wildfire Service and the Wildfire Risk Reduction, Prescribed Fire and Cultural Burning programs to elevate this risk and support incorporating appropriate Scotch broom control efforts into these programs. The Ministry of Forests welcomes additional discussion with UBCM on this issue as it relates to reducing wildfire urban interface risk.