What needs to be done?
Wildfires are part of a forest’s natural lifecycle, but they are becoming more frequent and severe as a result of climate change. In 2023, Canada experienced one of the worst wildfire seasons on record, with fires consuming nearly 19 million hectares of land, more than twice the previous record set in 1989.[36] We need to be working with our forests to help them better adapt to changing climate conditions and to minimize the impact of wildfires.
ACTION IS NEEDED NOW
More frequent, intense, and damaging wildfires are a critical challenge for many communities across Canada. Sustainable forest management can proactively increase natural resilience through active monitoring and adjusting harvesting schedules to favour trees more susceptible to wildfire. By removing the decay and debris such as dead grass, leaves, twigs, and other tree parts that can accelerate these natural disasters, preventive actions also help regenerate harvested areas with trees that are better adapted to future climate conditions, building future resiliency while mitigating immediate risk.
Government has demonstrated a willingness to take a leadership role in mitigation efforts, with the Canadian Wildland Fire Prevention and Mitigation Strategy (CCFM) providing a framework for nationwide awareness and investment. But to protect our communities’ safety, reduce emissions from fires, and keep our forests healthy, we need government to scale up its efforts and make a greater commitment by recognizing the role active forest management can play in reducing wildfire risk.
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Send a letter to your Member of Parliament today to show your support for forest management solutions to address worsening wildfire risks.
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