The Canadian Avalanche Centre (CAC) has launched a project in Dawson Creek that brings significant improvements to public avalanche safety services for the North Rockies.
Funded by BC’s Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations (MFLNRO) and Apache Corporation, the CAC’s North Rockies Pilot Project will lay the foundation for establishing a regular avalanche forecasting program for this region.
“Creating an avalanche forecast for the North Rockies has been a dream of ours for many years,” acting Executive Director Karl Klassen of the CAC said in a statment. “This region encompasses many popular winter recreational areas, where public safety can be increased through better avalanche forecasts. Today, through this generous funding, we can start work on defining the future for avalanche safety in the North Rockies.”
“The Government of BC is a strong advocate for avalanche awareness and safety throughout the province,” Blair Lekstrom, MLA for Peace River South said in the statement. “MFLNRO’s contribution of $50,000 to this pilot project will substantially improve the safety information available to backcountry users in the North Rockies.”
“Our support of the North Rockies Pilot Project is a natural fit for Apache,” said Natalie Poole-Moffatt, head of Public and Government Affairs for Apache Canada. “Many of our people love to explore the backcountry and we’re very pleased to contribute to a program that’s focused on public safety and awareness. The CAC does some great work in many communities and we’re happy to help them expand their services in the North Rockies region.”
The CAC is Canada’s national public avalanche safety organization. Incorporated in 2004, the CAC is non-profit and non-government, with a mandate to provide public avalanche warning programs and services.
