Government of B.C. pledges $10 million to Avalanche Canada

Avalanche Canada is receiving $10 million from the Government of British Columbia over the next 10 years, thanks to lobbying from the group.

This money will go towards expanding regional avalanche forecasts, in addition to training programs for backcountry users of all backgrounds.

“We will use this funding to stabilize our existing programs and expand by forming new field teams in under-served regions in Vancouver Island and northern B.C. We will also be expanding our youth programs throughout the province,” says Gilles Valade, executive director of Avalanche Canada.

Avalanche Terrain Exposure Scale (ATES) rating signs can be found at trailheads for areas that have been rated. This is one initiative provided by Avalanche Canada. Photo: Avalanche Canada.

Approximately 75 per cent of Canadian avalanche deaths occur in British Columbia. With 90 per cent of Avalanche Canada’s services delivered within the province, the grant ensures the sustainability of these programs.

With the securement of $10 million over the next 10 years, Valade says Avalanche Canada can focus more on delivering programs to British Columbians, instead of securing funding.

Receiving this grant has not been easy. Avalanche Canada has been lobbying for additional funding from the Government of B.C. since 2019.

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To read more about Avalanche Canada’s advocacy, and how important avalanche safety funding is, check out our article below:

Despite B.C. NDP government promises, Avalanche Canada left hanging by snap election call