Resources for Farmers Affected by BC Wildfires

We have been devastated to see wildfires sweeping across BC, the Northwest Territories, and beyond. Our hearts go out to all the farmers affected by the wildfires, and their families, animals, and communities.

This post contains resources for those affected by the wildfires in BC, with some specific resources for farmers. We have also included options for those wishing to support recovery efforts.

Resources for Farmers Affected By BC Wildfires

General

• Government of BC Emergency Support Services: Register as an evacuee and claim support through your regional office.
• AgSafe BC Wildfire Emergency Planning Resources:  Links to evacuation support and financial assistance.
• Fire Smart BC: Provides checklists and plans for wildfire preparedness, as well as current wildfire evacuation orders.
• Faireshare CSA Coalition & Not Our Farm have created a document detailing best practices to help you stay safe while working in conditions of smoke and fire
• AgriStability: Offers support when farmers suffer a decline in income.
• AgriServiceBC support hotline, for guidance on BC Ministry of Agriculture support programs call: 1-888-221-7141

Resources for the North Okanagan-Shuswap

• Kamloops Chamber of Commerce: Evacuation information and a list of support services

Resources for the Central Okanagan

• Central Okanagan Emergency Operations: Provides an interactive map of evacuation alerts and orders, tips on protecting yourself and your property, and evacuation support.

Animal Relocation Support

• Government of BC Livestock Relocation Program: For both commercial animals and farm pets. Prepare ahead of an evacuation, learn how to register, and receive reimbursement.
• BC SPCA: Can provide temporary emergency pet boarding and care at no cost for those displaced by the wildfires, as well as free pet food and supplies.
• Animal Lifeline Emergency Response Team: Pet and livestock rescue in times of disaster

Mental Health

• AgSafe BC: Mental wellness resources for producers and employers

Places to Donate for Wildfire Recovery in BC:

• The Secwepemc Chapter of the Working Group on Indigenous Food Sovereignty is fundraising to support wildfire recovery. You can learn more and donate here.
• RAMA (Radical Action with Migrants in Agriculture), is looking to raise money to purchase food and face masks for migrant farm workers who continue to work outdoors during the wildfires. You can learn more about their organization and donate here.
• Animal Lifeline Emergency Response Team: Pet and livestock rescue in times of disaster

Do you know of other resources that should be added to this list? Please email network@youngagrarians.org.