Resources for Farmers Affected by Wildfires

We are deeply saddened to witness so many wildfires impacting communities across Canada. Our heart goes out to those who have been affected.

On this page, you’ll find resources for those impacted by the wildfires, with some specific options for farmers.

This page will be updated as more information becomes available, including with fundraisers for those hoping to support recovery efforts.

MANITOBA

• The Government of Manitoba’s Wildfire Information page: Find up-to-date information on the status and location of active wildfires, fire restrictions and bans, evacuations and learn how to help prevent wildfires.
• Canadian Red Cross: If you have been evacuated, you can register with the Red Cross to ensure you can be contacted while away from home.
• Manitoba 211: Evacuees who need help connecting with supports while they are evacuated can contact Manitoba 211 for assistance by calling 211 from anywhere in Manitoba or by emailing 211mb@findhelp.ca.
• MB511: Check Manitoba 511 for the latest road conditions and closures due to wildfires.
• Shared Health: Information about health supports for evacuees, including mental health resources and Indigenous wellbeing supports

SASKATCHEWAN

• Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency: Find up-to-date information on the status of wildfires, fire bans and evacuations, and access evacuation and emergency support services.
• FireSmart for Farms and Ranches: Resources to help limit the impact of wildfires on property

Looking for ways to help?

• The Saskatoon Community Foundation has put together a list of organizations that are actively supporting wildfire evacuees here.

ALBERTA

• The Government of Alberta’s Wildfire Information: Check the status of active wildfires and find evacuation information for current emergencies, including travel advisories and financial support.
• The Government of Alberta’s Farm Fire Prevention: Resources to help prevent on-farm fires.

Looking for ways to help?

• The County of Grande Prairie is leading an initiative to connect livestock producers in need of feed with those who have a surplus.

BRITISH COLUMBIA

• Ministry of Agriculture & Seafood Wildfire Resources: Information on how to prepare your farm operation for wildfires, and develop an evacuation plan
• Ministry of Agriculture & Seafood Emergency Preparedness for Producers: Factsheets to help producers prepare for an emergency event.
• EmergencyInfo BC: Find current and official information during emergencies in BC
• 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.
• 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
• 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
• AgSafe BC: Mental wellness resources for producers and employers

FUNDRAISERS

• Central Okanagan Community Food Bank Emergency Hamper Program

GENERAL RESOURCES

• 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

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