FESBC receives increase interest in fifth funding intake

The Forest Enhancement Society of B.C. (FESBC) received 132 applications during its fifth intake for funding proposals.

According to a release, the society made $63 million available for deployment to projects aligned with the FESBC’s five purposes to advance environmental and resource stewardship of B.C.’s forests. Of the 132 applications, 32 were received for the Thompson Okanagan region and 45 were received from First Nations organizations.

“We are delighted with the number of good quality proposals,” said Steve Kozuki, executive director of FESBC in a news release. “Our team of forest professionals guided proponents through the application process to ensure funding is well spent on projects that have meaningful impact. Our society is now in a position to award new grants in addition to the already approved 171 projects valued at $163 million to organizations like community forests, municipalities, and First Nations who implement projects focused on a variety of treatments on Provincial Crown forest lands.”

The news release states the organization received proposal requests for almost double the $63 million available from across the province. The majority of the applications focused on wildfire risk reduction, receiving 86 applications.

The society also received 33 applications for forest carbon initiatives and 10 applications for improving low value forests. Two applications were sent in for improving wildlife habitat and one application was made for supporting the use of fibre.

“It is important that we use the funds entrusted to us to support projects that provide maximum benefits in terms of environmental and resource stewardship of B.C.’s public forests,” said Kozuki.

All projects put forward were developed in collaboration with the land manager from the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development.

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Jordyn Thomson | Reporter

JordynThomson