Alberta communities and Métis Settlements affected by recent wildfires will see some relief as Alberta’s government has approved a $175 million Disaster Recovery Program (DRP) to help Alberta communities recoup costs related to the wildfire response and recovery.
Wildfires in May and June have burned over 1.4 million hectares and resulted in approximately 38,000 Albertans being evacuated from their home, the province noted in its announcement Tuesday.
Due to the actions of the many firefighters from across the province as well as the country and international help, there have been no casualties and the bulk of the wildfires have now been subdued.
“This year’s wildfire season has had an early and profound impact on Albertan communities, and our hearts go out to all those affected,” says Premier Danielle Smith. “Our government stands ready and willing to help Alberta communities. We are committed to supporting local authorities and will use the Disaster Recovery Program to provide financial assistance for the extraordinary costs to respond to the wildfires.”
According to the province, local authorities impacted by the wildfires can now apply for costs incurred responding to the wildfires and repairing related damage. Eligible expenses that may be covered could include volunteer fire fighter wages, local authority firefighter and municipal staff overtime costs, mutual aid costs for reception centre accommodation, food and transportation, structural protection costs, and infrastructure damaged during the wildfire response.
Municipalities affected by the wildfires can now apply for costs brought on by the fires. Expenses that apply to the DRP include;
“I’m extremely grateful to the province for this support. This program will help us rebuild and recover from one of the most devastating events our community has had to face and ensure that we can move forward stronger than ever,” says Nancy Dodds, Drayton Valley mayor. “I look forward to continuing to work together to best support Drayton Valley.”
Bart Guyon, reeve of Brazeau County, adds, “Recent wildfires have had a severe impact on residents across Brazeau County. This support from Alberta’s government will go a long way towards helping our communities rebuild and recover.”
The DRP provides financial assistance for uninsurable loss and damage caused by emergencies and disasters, but it is not intended to replace appropriate fire insurance coverage. First Nations communities are supported directly by Indigenous Services Canada, which provides disaster financial assistance for emergency response and recovery activities.
