The Regional District of Kootenay Boundary (RDKB) has been awarded $1,185,962.21 in FireSmart Community Grant funding—the largest amount the regional district has received to date. This marks the fifth consecutive year the RDKB has been supported through the FireSmart Community Funding and Supports program, administered by the Union of BC Municipalities and funded by the Province of BC.
This significant investment reflects the continuing success and growth of FireSmart programming across the region. With increased staffing, new initiatives, and strong community uptake, the RDKB is strengthening wildfire resilience at every level—household, neighbourhood, and region-wide.
“Securing this level of funding is both an honour and a responsibility,” said Carlene Pires, RDKB Emergency Program Coordinator and FireSmart Coordinator. “It shows confidence in the work we’ve been doing, from delivering home assessments and community education to piloting innovative tools like the FireSmart Trailer. Most importantly, it means more residents will have access to the knowledge, resources, and supports they need to lower their wildfire risk.”
Highlights of RDKB’s FireSmart programming:
- Expanding staff capacity – funding now supports two year-round full-time positions (FireSmart Coordinator and Lead Wildfire Mitigation Specialist), in addition to three seasonal Wildfire Mitigation Specialists serving the region.
- Building stronger fire response capacity – through cross-training with local fire departments on wildfire response.
- Supporting residents directly – through the RDKB FireSmart Assessment Program and residential rebate program. From June 2025 to date, more than 250 assessments have been completed, 45+ events held, and 18 rebates issued—totalling nearly $48,000—with the program open until October 31, 2025.
- Fuel management planning: Work is underway to plan and develop fuel management projects in Montrose, Trail, Warfield, and Greenwood, guided by Community Wildfire Resiliency Plans completed in 2024.
- Innovative outreach – the FireSmart on Wheels Trailer, launched in 2024, continues to be a highly visible and popular addition at community events, making wildfire education more engaging as well as accessible.
“Wildfires are a reality in our region, but with strong partnerships, engaged communities, and now this incredible funding boost, we are better equipped than ever to prepare and adapt,” added Pires.
“This funding not only strengthens our capacity to protect homes and neighbourhoods, but it also empowers our residents to take action,” said Andy Morel, RDKB Board Chair. “The success of FireSmart in the Boundary and Greater Trail comes from collaboration—between local governments, fire departments, and community members—working together toward a safer, more resilient future.
Carlene Pires, RDKB Emergency Program Coordinator and FireSmart Coordinator, with Ember the FireSmart Fox and the FireSmart Trailer on Wheels.