BC Wildfire

$28 Million spent on Wildfire suppression within PG Fire Centre

Jan 31, 2023 | 3:31 PM

PRINCE GEORGE – In recent years BC Wildfire crews have dealt with climate-related disasters, wildfires, floods and heat domes. Just under 30 million dollars was spent during the 2022 wildfire season within the Prince George Fire Centre for a season that ramped up at the beginning of fall.

During the 2022 wildfire season, the Prince George Fire Centre fought nearly 250 wildfires, and almost 77 of those were human-caused.

“We did see a drop in our human-caused fires this year. And I think there’s probably a combination of reasons. One being that there is more public education and strong messaging going out across the province through various channels.”

Sharon Nickel, BC Wildfire Communications

The Prince George Fire Centre includes most of the northeast part of the Province; in 2022, 59 000 Hectares were burned, more than double all other fire centres around the province.

Provincially, the Wildfire Service sent crews to neighbouring jurisdictions to assist with their early start to the wildfire season.

This year, the BC wildfire is transitioning into more year-round operations.

The province spent 321 million dollars on wildfire suppression during the 2022 season.

Looking ahead, Seasonal staff are returning next month for their preseason training and exercises.