 |
|
SASKATOON – A new national wildfire strategy developed with expertise from British Columbia has been adopted by all of Canada’s provinces, Forests and Range Minister Rich Coleman announced today.
“This national strategy is built on B.C.’s leadership,” said Coleman, who is attending the meeting of the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers. “We’re continuing to implement recommendations of the Filmon review, and our efforts are getting noticed across Canada.”
The Canadian Wildland Fire Strategy declaration signed today is aimed at reducing losses of life, property and forest values caused by wildfires. It commits the federal, provincial and territorial governments to pursue $1 billion over 10 years to implement the strategy, which would include activities such as fuel reduction, ecosystem management, public education and research. Funds would also replace aging aircraft and equipment. The national strategy endorses the FireSmart program, which B.C. has been promoting for years.
“British Columbia has seen first-hand the devastating
toll wildfires can take on our families, communities and province, and we’re
pleased to have contributed to this strategy,” said Coleman. “By working together
with other jurisdictions, we can better prepare and respond to the risks of
wildfire.”
It’s
estimated that wildland fires are the most frequent and expensive natural
emergency in Canada, costing as much as $1 billion per year. Costs and impacts
are projected to rise because of increased use of and pressure on wildlands,
and changes in climate and weather.
More
information on the strategy is available on the Website of the Canadian
Council of Forest Ministers at www.ccfm.org/.
-30-
|
contact: |
Communications Manager Ministry of Forests and Range 250 387-8486 |
|
|
|
||
|
Visit the Province's website at www.gov.bc.ca for online information and services. |
||
