The federal government is investing $45.7 million in research and Indigenous-led initiatives to help Canadians better prepare for increasingly frequent and intense wildfires.
Corey Hogan, Parliamentary Secretary to Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson, announced the funding Tuesday under Natural Resources Canada’s Build and Mobilize Foundational Wildland Fire Knowledge program. Thirty projects across the country will receive support to advance wildfire science, strengthen risk assessments, improve mitigation and adaptive forestry practices, and equip Indigenous communities with tools for fire preparedness.
“Protecting the safety, health, and economic well-being of communities across Canada is a top priority as we face the ongoing threat of wildfires,” Hodgson said. “Today’s announcement will allow us to prepare for future challenges by advancing wildfire knowledge, accelerating risk and mitigation strategies, and supporting Indigenous fire stewardship to build resilience and protect Canadian families and homes.”
Hogan said the projects will address knowledge gaps and help communities respond to wildfires more effectively. “Through this investment, we’re closing knowledge gaps, improving risk assessments and supporting Indigenous-led projects that restore cultural fire stewardship — all in service of keeping Canadians safe,” he said.
Eleanor Olszewski, Minister of Emergency Management and Community Resilience, said the funding is part of a broader plan to improve Canada’s disaster preparedness. “This funding will help communities be ready for wildfire risks and protect their homes and land,” she said.
The investment comes as wildfire season continues across much of Canada, with many communities facing significant impacts. Projects funded through the program are expected to enhance wildfire prevention, mitigation, and recovery while supporting Indigenous-led fire stewardship initiatives.