BC has earmarked 2.1 billion dollars for a climate response and adaptation program that includes wildfire prevention support and expands the wildfire service full-time and year-round.
Fire ecologist Bob Gray says the new funding could help fill gaps in work needed to prevent or reduce the severity of wildfires because that usually happens in the off-season.
But John Davies, a registered professional forester and wildland fire specialist says the service might have trouble retaining employees beyond the summer as many of its firefighters are seasonal workers such as students.
Forestry consultant Bruce Morrow says the government could also better incorporate those already working in the profession rather than training new B-C Wildfire Service employees. (The Canadian Press)