FRIAA FireSmart funding available for Alberta communities

The Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta (FRIAA) FireSmart Program is seeking applications from Alberta communities eager to become FireSmart and mitigate the impact of wildfire on their communities. This summer FRIAA FireSmart liaisons have been working closely with communities and organizations around the province raising awareness about this funding opportunity.

“I’ve travelled across the province meeting with communities, talking to them about the program, FireSmart principles and how they can apply for funding. We’ve received 55 proposals this year from a range of applicants and interest from communities throughout Alberta,” says FRIAA FireSmart liaison Rick Arthur.

During the 2011 fire season, the community of Red Earth Creek within the Municipal District (MD) of Opportunity was completely evacuated, experiencing similar impacts, on a smaller scale, to Fort McMurray. Since then, the hamlet has worked with the MD’s surrounding communities to apply for FireSmart funding for projects to educate residents on the steps they can take to help mitigate the impact of wildfire.

“A key part of the MD’s strategic plan was its partnership with Red Earth Creek, Wabasca and Sandy Lake on FireSmart education. This project included open houses and community events educating residents about FireSmart principles as well as the activities and projects underway in their communities,” says FRIAA spokesperson, Colin Paranich.

Earlier this summer, FRIAA awarded $4.1 million to 34 new project proposals in response to their January 2016 request for Expressions of Interest (EOI). FRIAA FireSmart Program funding is available twice each year. The application deadline for the next funding opportunity closes on September 28. For more information on eligibility and how to apply, visit: friaafiresmart.ca