CSRD’s FireSmart program operating for two more years thanks to $1.1 million grant
SALMON ARM, B.C. — The Columbia Shuswap Regional District’s (CSRD) FireSmart program received funding to operate for two more years.
In a news release issued Tuesday (March 26), the CSRD says a $1.1 million grant from the Union of B.C. Municipalities will be spread out over two years. The district says the funding gives the FireSmart program a better timeframe to plan and complete projects.
“This grant really recognizes the importance of FireSmart, especially in areas like ours where the risk of wildfire to homes is great. Certainly, we saw examples during the Bush Creek East Wildfire where FireSmarted properties survived the blaze when others didn’t,” Derek Sutherland, CSRD general manager of community and protective services says.
The CSRD’s says its FireSmart program focuses on prevention and education programs for residents. It also provides a free personalized wildfire property assessment from a FireSmart representative to help homeowners learn about their fire risks and how to reduce them.