The Alberta government will continue funding Avalanche Canada for the next three years. The not-for-profit organization, based in Revelstoke, B.C., is dedicated to public avalanche safety and issues daily avalanche forecasts throughout the winter. A three-year funding agreement with the province came to an end in March. Previously, the organization got $250,000 a year from Alberta, but was asking for $300,000 annually for the next three-year agreement. On Friday, the province confirmed to CTV News they have renewed funding for Avalanche Canada, saying it’s another three-year agreement for $250,000 a year. “Avalanche Canada provides a good service for Albertans,” said Todd Loewen, minister of forestry and parks, in an interview with CTV News. “It’s important that we provide that partnership we have with them.” In addition to avalanche forecasts, the organization also offers public education programs and training courses designed to help keep backcountry users safe. “Having people aware of the risks and aware of things they can do to reduce those risks is important too,” Loewen added. “It’s multifaceted, the service that they provide, and we appreciate it.” Loewen said it’s important for multi-year funding deals to be reviewed before renewal to ensure the funding is in line with the government’s values. “There was never a thought that we weren’t going to fund (Avalanche Canada), we just wanted to figure out level of funding we should do.” Gilles Valade, CEO of Avalanche Canada, says they are extremely grateful province for its continued support. “This three-year funding provides important stability for Avalanche Canada and allows us to continue delivering essential avalanche safety services that Albertans rely on,” he said. Christopher Nicolson, president and CEO of Canada West Ski Association, says they appreciate the government continuing to support Avalanche Canada, calling it a “very important decision” in terms of safety for both the public and operators.
