FireSmart work is now complete on vacant hospital district lands in Westview.
The qathet Regional District said the project took place between late November and mid-December on property near Abbotsford Street, funded through the Union of B.C. Municipalities’ Community Resiliency Investment Program, which supports activities that reduce wildfire risk.
Crews focused on vegetation management, removing excess ground fuels and trimming lower tree branches to reduce wildfire risk.
FireSmart co-ordinator Noel Poulin said the improvements lower the risk of a major forest fire in the area and bring peace of mind to nearby residents.
“The Hospital Board Lands are in the heart of Westview and the fire smarting of this property will vastly reduce the hazard of a wide spread forest fire on this property,” said Poulin. “The limiting of this risk is a relief to the neighbours and the community in general, and we thank the UBCM for their generous support to complete this project.”
The qRD FireSmart program operates throughout the region, including Powell River and surrounding electoral areas, with an emphasis on wildfire education and prevention.
