Alberta, feds invest $57M for new equipment to battle wildfires

After a couple of devastating wildfire seasons in Alberta, the provincial and federal governments are reportedly investing in new wildfire equipment.

Thursday, Jonathan Wilkinson, the federal Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Todd Loewen, the provincial Minister of Forestry and Parks announced a combined investment of $57 million to purchase new equipment.

This investment will be over a five-year period as part of the federal Fighting and Managing Wildfires in a Changing Climate Program – Equipment Fund (FMWCC).

“Many Albertans have been affected by wildfires this season. This funding will enhance wildfire management in our province and protect Albertans, their communities and livelihoods from the impacts of wildfire. We’re grateful to our federal partners for their support, and we will continue working to respond effectively to wildfires across our landscape,” said Minister Loewen.

The FMWCC Equipment Fund was first introduced in 2022, for provinces to invest in support and wildfire firefighting equipment, and Thursday’s investment adds to funds already used by Alberta.

The province has already purchased aircraft parts, general wildfire equipment including pumps and hoses, and telecommunications equipment such as radios and transmitters, and has invested in better predictive services.

“As the risks of costly wildfires grow every year, we have to keep pace with increased levels of preparation. The wildfire at Jasper National Park showed us that it pays to be prepared, as the Armed Forces had all the resources needed to save the majority of the town and most of the critical infrastructure,” said Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

“Today’s investment in the firefighting capabilities of Alberta strengthens what has already been a very strong level of cooperation between our two governments and gives firefighters the tools they need to best protect our communities.”

Funding is also expected to help train firefighting personnel and improve safety for communities and firefighters.