For a generation now, governments have played a dangerous, costly game with wildfire in British Columbia. Government must do many things to win this game. It must prevent wildfire outbreaks, put fires out and help communities recover from the aftermath. Unfortunately, wildfire is in first place.
Climate change is the biggest culprit here. It has pushed B.C. across the threshold to a new reality. Wildfires are now more frequent, intense and costly.
Revenue from forestry has topped natural gas royalties in 12 of the past 13 fiscal years, but the sector will likely play a supporting tole in the foreseeable future with reduced timber supplies
The natural gas industry is poised to take centre stage in British Columbia’s economy and overtake the forestry sector as the largest contributor to the province’s resource revenue.
‘The program is designed for there to be consequences, but those responsible for spills don’t comply with the law.’
B.C. is not adequately prepared to deal with a serious hazardous spill, according to an audit of the province’s Environmental Emergency Program released Tuesday.
