N.B. announces over $2.6M spending to increase wildfire resiliency

New Brunswick is spending more than $2.5 million to support communities in combatting future wildfires.

The Government of New Brunswick announced it will spend more than $2.6 million to support 50 communities prepare for and respond to wildfires.

The funding is from the Natural Resources Canada’s Resilient Communities through the FireSmart program. It is part of a $14.5 million federal-provincial investment.

The FireSmart program offers resources, programs and recommendations to help increase neighbourhood resilience to wildfires.

“We were extremely fortunate not to have lost any lives or infrastructure this past summer, and we anticipate that the wildfire risk to our province is going to continue to increase due to climate change,” said Natural Resources Minister John Herron. “These resiliency plans are essential for ensuring that communities are prepared and will contribute to government’s wildfire management priorities of protecting human life, critical infrastructure, communities and natural resources from the threat of wildfire.”

The first phase of the funding will go towards consultation to develop a strategic framework for the communities.

“Wildfire risks vary from one region to another,” said Saint John-Kennebecasis MP Wayne Long. “These plans are crucial for tailoring solutions to the realities of local communities in New Brunswick. This investment ensures that communities have the expertise and resources to strengthen their resilience and protect their families, homes and critical infrastructure for years to come.”

The four components that will likely be used for the community wildfire resiliency plan are:

• risk assessment: identifying areas in the community that are most vulnerable to wildfires
• mitigation strategies: implementing measures to reduce wildfire risks, such as creating defensible spaces, improving building codes and managing vegetation
• emergency response: developing plans for evacuation, firefighting and communication during a wildfire
• community engagement: educating and involving community members in wildfire preparedness and resilience efforts.

“Our communities have varied needs and risk factors in terms of wildfires,” said Local Government Minister Aaron Kennedy. “Identifying these factors, such as how close communities are located to heavily forested areas versus the different risks facing urban communities, will enable communities to be better prepared for their unique needs.”

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