Wildfire resilience in the Comox Valley is getting a boost with new funding.
The Comox Valley FireSmart Collaborative has been awarded about $1.8 million through the provincial government’s Community Resiliency Investment program, with the funding running through 2027.
Committee chair Ian Robertson said the group is pleased with the result.
“The whole community benefits from work like this and we’re excited to begin using these funds for the safety and wellbeing of residents and visitors in the region.”
The grant will support the following activities and initiatives:
- Tree/yard debris chipping events for high-risk neighbourhoods
- Creation of a demonstration forest to show community what FireSmart properties look like
- Development considerations
- Increased capacity to complete home ignition zone assessments
- Supporting neighbourhoods to become FireSmart
- Reviewing and recommending updates to critical infrastructure
- Updating the neighbourhood emergency preparedness program
- Supporting FireSmart education programs in libraries
- Support cross-training to ensure emergency responded can provide more lifesaving tips in the community
Will Cole-Hamilton, chair of the Comox Valley Regional District board, said the funding is a significant step forward for wildfire resilience in the region.
“With support secured through 2027, we’re able to expand practical, on-the-ground FireSmart initiatives that help residents, neighbourhoods and local governments reduce risk and strengthen preparedness.”
