Record funding provided for B.C. ground search and rescue groups

PRINCE GEORGE- The province is providing $18.6 million in one-time funding to ground search and rescue groups throughout the province to be used over the next three years. Each of the 80 ground search and rescue groups and their 2,500 members will receive a portion of the money.

The funding will help the BC Search and Rescue Association (BCSARA) and GSAR groups bolster training, provide administrative support and equipment renewals. It also will support the province and BCSARA in work to develop and implement a new governance and funding model.

The $18.6 million represent the single largest provincial GSAR investment in B.C.’s history, a 24% increase from $5 million per year in supplemental funding announced in 2016.

Emergency Management BC will also receive funding for two additional staff positions to work with BCSARA on the development and implementation of a new governance and funding model.