Whereas the process of reduction of interface wildfire risk is placing a growing burden on local governments in terms of staff time and cash contributions; And whereas the current pace of progress will not result in meeting risk reduction targets for several decades: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM work with the Province of BC to prepare a summary of approaches being taken across the province to address interface wildfire risks, including identifications of all organizations local governments, BC Timber Sales, provincial ministries, or non-governmental organizations involved in preparing prescriptions and implementing treatments along with funding sources available to each organization.
Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations Rural Development A comprehensive review of the 2017 wildfire season will be undertaken to determine what worked well and to identify opportunities for improvement and enhanced co-operation between agencies. The Province recognize that more needs to be done to reduce interface wildfire risks and protect our communities from wildfire damage. As part of the September Budget Update, the BC Government allocated 140 million over three years specifically for wildfire risk reduction, reforestation, wildlife habitat restoration and promoting awareness of FireSmart principles. Fire prevention and wildfire risk mitigation are joint responsibilities of the provincial government, local governments, industry, stakeholders, First Nations and private property owners. We must all work together to reduce wildfire threats.