This is a joint release with the Government of Yukon’s Wildland Fire Management Branch and Yukon First Nations Wildfire.
The Government of Yukon’s Wildland Fire Management Branch and Yukon First Nations Wildfire have entered a new, three-year Unit Crew Services Agreement.
Under the agreement, funds provided by the Yukon government will support Yukon First Nations Wildfire to employ 20 additional youth each year to assist with the Yukon’s wildland fire response operations, and conduct forest fuel reduction and prevention and mitigation activities that will create wildfire resilient Yukon communities.
By working collaboratively to support the Yukon’s prevention, mitigation, suppression and response to wildfires and other incidents, this new agreement serves as an example for other organizations who are working towards reconciliation with First Nations.
Yukon First Nations have been integral to wildfire management in the Yukon for many years and our government is pleased to continue to support and work with Yukon First Nations Wildfire through this new agreement. This agreement will contribute to youth development, reinforce the positive working relationship between the Yukon government and Yukon First Nations Wildfire and set the foundation for our work together over the next several years.
We are pleased to enter into this new and important agreement that will support Yukon youth and benefit all Yukoners by enhancing wildfire resilience across the territory. This Unit Crew will be thoroughly trained to provide additional response resources for the Yukon, and the rest of Canada, to draw on during upcoming wildfire seasons. While not activated for fires, the crew will support fuel mitigation and fire preparedness activities, by engaging in fuel-break construction and FireSmart, as well as aid with any other hazard that may threaten Yukoners, such as flooding.
Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca
Kat Hallett
Communications, Protective Services
867-332-4188
kathryn.hallett@yukon.ca
Tara Goodwin-Chief
867-334-5189
admin@yfnw.ca