Merritt applying for FireSmart funding

The City of Merritt is looking to continue with FireSmarting the community through a grant opportunity.

“Merritt Fire Rescue Department has coordinated the fuel management loads through this grant since 2019. This year’s target area is referred to as Block 2, located above the Golf Course and below Juniper Drive. The project covers 6 hectares which pose a risk to the community through multiple years of dead grass accumulating and increasing the fuel load for a potential fire,” said Wayne Anderson, Director of Finance.

The City is considered as a ‘higher risk’ of wildfire and therefore is eligible to receive up to $150,000 per year from the program.

“This opportunity is requesting $50,096 in funding and is 100% grant funded through the program. The cost to the City is the resources required for progress and final reports to the funder,” added Anderson.

It was noted that there is multiple funding streams every year for the program and Merritt will be able to apply for additional funding for projects throughout the year.

Council voted unanimously to approve the motion, and apply for the grant.