The Government of Canada is investing $10.1 million for wildfire mitigation in Whistler.
MP Patrick Weiler made the announcement in Whistler on Nov. 10.
The funding will pay for fuel management treatments to 12 high-risk forested areas in Whistler, according to a press release. The treatments will reduce the risk of wildfires and protect local communities, including the Lil’wat Nation and Squamish Nation. Once completed, the project will ensure that regional critical infrastructure and residential areas are protected, while increasing awareness and understanding of the wildfire risk posed to the area.
“With climate change increasing the likelihood of severe weather events, it is important that we invest in quality disaster mitigation and adaptation infrastructure," Weiler said in the release.
"Through this major federal investment, we will see the implementation of fuel management treatments in a dozen high risk areas in Whistler, which will safeguard homes, businesses, livelihoods, and the environment. This project will also inform local communities about wildfire risks and management in the area to build awareness and climate resiliency so that our community is informed in how we can protect what matters most.”
Whistler Mayor Jack Crompton voiced his thanks for the investment.
“This money reduces our risk of wildfire immensely and dramatically reduces the timeline for protecting our community," he said in the release. "We have a Community Wildfire Resiliency Plan, and now we have the funds to protect our critical infrastructure, our residential areas and our tourism economy.”
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