Communities focus on wildfire resiliency and readiness
Columbia Basin Trust supports 43 projects to create plans, buy equipment and provide training Wildfires can sweep in at any moment. To make sure that they’re prepared, small, rural communities […]
Columbia Basin Trust supports 43 projects to create plans, buy equipment and provide training
Wildfires can sweep in at any moment. To make sure that they’re prepared, small, rural communities and First Nations around the Columbia Basin are taking steps like completing planning assessments related to wildfire resiliency, purchasing wildfire prevention and protection equipment and training their firefighters. Currently, 43 such projects are receiving support from Columbia Basin Trust.
“Over the years, Basin communities have worked hard to be ready for various wildfire situations through effective on-the-ground actions such as planning, wildfire prevention and community capacity building,” said Hannah Holden, Senior Manager, Delivery of Benefits, Columbia Basin Trust. “Every additional planning step taken, piece of equipment purchased or skill learned increases their capacity to prepare for wildfires, so we’re pleased to provide support in this way.”
The projects might involve buying equipment like chainsaws or hoses or offering training courses like first aid or wildfire fighting. They may also include doing essential planning, such as performing a community structure protection inventory or focusing on water availability and delivery.
Since fall 2022, 70 such projects have received over $3.2 million in Trust support. To learn more about the program and see previously approved projects, visit ourtrust.org/wildfirereadiness.
To view the most recent approved projects, click here.
Here are a few of the latest recipients:
