Start by identifying areas that would benefit from burning, use local knowledge, past fire response areas, and Community Wildfire Resiliency plans (CWRPs).  Prioritize zones near critical infrastructure, evacuation routes, and safety zones. From there, pull together a team and begin the planning and engagement process early.

There are several funding streams depending on land ownership and project type. Common sources include:

• CRI – Community Resiliency Investment Program

• FESBC – Forest Enhancement Society of BC

• ISC through FNESS – Indigenous Services Canada support

• Industry partnerships, municipalities, or internal budgets

Use location and treatment type to match the right funder. Each may have different reporting requirements (e.g., burn plan, post-treatment reports).

This depends on the land ownership, goals and objectives.  For example, bring in a Registered Professional Forester (RPF) if timber is a value or if you are operating under the Forest and Range Practices Act. Other helpful roles include:

• Certified Burn Boss

• Fire Effects Monitor

• Local fire chiefs or trained fire crews

• Resource Advisors

• Biologists, AFE Wildland Fire Ecologists or Agrologists,

• Fire Keepers

• Traditional Knowledge Holders

• Contractors experienced with fire mitigation work

It depends on land ownership and jurisdiction. You may need:

• Authorization under the Wildfire Act (for Crown land)

• Support or notice to BC Wildfire Service (BCWS)

• Consultation and approval from First Nations, especially on traditional territories

• Permission from overlapping landholders (e.g., Fortis, BC Hydro, utilities)

• Municipal or regional district agreements

• Forestry related permits or authorizations

Don't proceed until all identified stakeholders and land managers are informed and engaged.

An early and meaningful consultation is critical. This includes:

• Learning about local cultural practices and burn protocols

• Inviting participation or leadership from fire keepers and Elders

• Providing honorariums or space for cultural practices

• Including Indigenous partners from planning to post-burn reflection

This builds stronger relationships and supports reconciliation through fire.

At minimum, all participants should hold S-100 (Basic Fire Suppression and Safety). Additional certifications include:

• Burn Boss (RXB2 or RXB3)

• Holding Boss (TFLD or STLD)

• Firing Boss (FIRB)

• Fire Effects Monitor (FEMO)

Use the BCWS Certification Manual to guide which roles and task books to assign and courses to take.

Absolutely!  Involving local crews builds capacity and trust. Make sure they meet training and WorkSafe requirements. You can also request support or Letters of Understanding (LOUs) with BCWS for additional expertise and potential cost-sharing.

A successful burn program needs:

• A well-scoped Burn Plan

• Pre-treatment and site prep

• Engagement and communication with the community (open houses, flyers, media)

• Appropriate PPE and tools

• Contingency planning (e.g., safety zones, escape routes, debriefs)

Use tools like pre-burn checklists, FEMO reports, and Burn Boss Field Books to stay organized.

Using certified personnel, planning in accordance with best practices, and involving appropriate authorities (BCWS, municipal fire, registered professionals) significantly reduces risk and liability. Ensure insurance coverage and that procurement or partnership agreements are in place.

Visit the BCWS Cultural and Prescribed Fire Site for more information, policy and templates.

Yes! It takes a team, but you don’t need to do it all at once. Focus on:

• Building a small, motivated team

• Starting with one or two well-chosen burn units

• Reaching out to others who’ve done it, like FNESS, regional fire leaders or even CR Professional

• Using grants to fund training, planning, and burn days

Every successful program starts with a conversation and a committed group of people.