Community Wildfire Protection Plan 2006 Program

The Community Wildfire Protection Program has been developed under the recommendations of the “Filmon” report “Firestorm 2003 Provincial Review”, to assist communities in the development of plans that will assist them in improving fire prevention and protection in the interface areas.

The Program is funded by the Ministry of Forests and Range and administered by the Union of BC Municipalities. The objective is to improve community safety and reduce the risk of property damage. Under this program, Municipalities can apply for funding to develop a Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP).

Forest professionals play a key role in fuel management endeavours in BC such as the development of CWPPs and prescriptions for fuel treatment areas. In particular, Association of BC Forest Professionals (ABCFP) members with a sound understanding of both fire behaviour and forestry will be invaluable in planning for, and achieving fuel management objectives.

A consultant, staff member or team developing a CWPP for a Local Government, should have a thorough understanding of fire behaviour and fire suppression tactics in the Wildland Urban Interface. This knowledge is normally gained through extensive participation in Wildland fire suppression operations at a senior level, and through nationally recognized advanced education in Wildland fire behaviour through courses such as S590 – Advanced Wildland Fire Behaviour, and S591 – Wildland Fire Behaviour Specialist.

Other valuable knowledge for developing a CWPP is an understanding of the Firesmart program, development bylaws, forestry harvesting and fuel management treatment techniques.