Canada invests $46M in 30 wildfire research projects, focusing on Indigenous knowledge, risk assessment, and adaptive forestry practices.
Federal Funding Targets Wildfire Solutions
The federal government has committed $45.7 million to wildfire research, supporting 30 projects nationwide aimed at improving fire risk assessment and prevention. The announcement comes amid Canada’s second-worst wildfire season on record, with more than 7.3 million hectares already burned.
Funding Breakdown Across Canada
The projects — led by non-profits, provincial governments, Indigenous groups, and private organizations — will explore innovative firefighting methods, best forestry practices, and ways to mitigate wildfire damage. Ten Indigenous-led initiatives will receive $3.9 million in total funding.
Calgary Announcement Highlights Urgency
Calgary Confederation MP Corey Hogan, parliamentary secretary to the minister of energy and natural resources, revealed the details Tuesday in Calgary. Hogan emphasized the funding’s role in advancing adaptive wildfire strategies that combine modern science with traditional practices.
Indigenous Knowledge at the Forefront
One highlighted initiative is the Blood Tribe Fire Guardianship, which received $500,000 earlier this year to enhance fire management in Indigenous territories. Hogan noted that techniques such as controlled burns, used for centuries by Indigenous communities, are gaining recognition as effective wildfire prevention tools.
Cultural and Historical Research Efforts
The B.C. Métis Federation is using its grant to study historical fire management in Métis communities. Research director Joe Desjarlais said the project aims to train community members in wildfire research and revive traditional knowledge for present-day resilience.
Long-Term Impact on Wildfire Preparedness
The Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, among the grant recipients, is expected to provide both immediate recommendations for resource allocation and long-term strategies. Hogan stressed that building a comprehensive body of wildfire knowledge will take time but will strengthen Canada’s ability to respond effectively in future fire seasons.