Why some B.C. farmers stay to fight, despite wildfire evacuation orders

In British Columbia, some farmers and ranchers are defying wildfire evacuation orders to protect their homes and livelihoods built over generations. Tom Davison, whose orchard was evacuated in 2021, is grateful for his son-in-law’s foresight in having firefighting equipment on-site, which helped save the orchard. Despite the order lifting, 221 registered agricultural premises in the province remain under evacuation due to wildfire activity.

Kaylee Jameson, owner of Sweet Pea Farms, stayed behind with over 100 animals to protect them from a wildfire that engulfed the property in 2021. Multiple wildfires are currently burning in southern British Columbia, including the Bradley Creek fire near Okanagan Lake. Premier David Eby acknowledges the difficult choices farmers face when faced with an evacuation notice, emphasizing the top priority is protecting human life.

The BC Cattlemen’s Association provides support to ranchers and farmers, working with the BC Wildfire Service to help move cattle to safety when necessary. Ranchers often have the equipment and knowledge to monitor fires and take action to protect their livestock. They may put out small fires on their own before they grow into larger threats.