The City of Grande Prairie has been awarded a $200,000 grant from the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta (FRIAA) to action a vegetation management project by December 31, 2024.

The FRIAA Firesmart program supports communities in implementing measures aimed at reducing the impact of wildfire. The program offers funding opportunities twice a year to Alberta communities that are looking to incorporate Firesmart principles.

“We are thrilled that the City of Grande Prairie has secured this significant grant which will assist us in essential wildfire supports and prioritizing community safety,” said City of Grande Prairie Mayor, Jackie Clayton.

The objective of the Vegetation Management project is to reduce wildfire risk for Grande Prairie, specifically within the South Bear Creek corridor as identified in the City's 2019 Wildfire Mitigation Strategy.

Other anticipated project outcomes include the continued incorporation of FireSmart principles, and the effective management of vegetation to establish defensible spaces, collectively enhancing the safety of the community and the ecosystem. Additional outcomes include the public education initiatives and cross-training opportunities for the City’s Fire Department.

Next steps for the City will be to secure a forestry consultant to lead the development of the vegetation management project.