PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT LAUNCHES COMMUNITY WILDFIRE PREVENTION PROGRAM

The Provincial Government has announced a new community-based approach to help reduce wildfire risks across Newfoundland and Labrador.

The Newfoundland and Labrador Community Wildfire Prevention and Mitigation Program will support communities in identifying wildfire risks and taking action to better protect homes, infrastructure, and surrounding environments.

The program will assist with:

- Local wildfire risk assessments

- Fuel management planning

- Community-level mitigation activities

- Emergency preparedness guidance for property owners

Communities are encouraged to apply for funding to develop Community Wildland Fire Resiliency Plans. These plans will focus on education, emergency planning, vegetation management, and other wildfire prevention strategies.

Applications are open until March 10, 2026.

The initiative is supported by a $12.8 million joint investment from the Federal and Provincial Governments through Natural Resources Canada’s Resilient Communities through FireSmart Program.

In 2025, Newfoundland and Labrador recorded 249 wildland fires - more than double the historical average of 118. A total of 18,486.6 hectares burned, with hundreds of structures destroyed and thousands of residents evacuated.

Provincial and federal officials say the program aims to strengthen local resilience as wildfire activity continues to increase.