Recover Shuswap Information
The Bush Creek East Wildfire began in early July 2023 and forced the evacuation of more than 8,000 people from eight communities in the Shuswap region. The Columbia Shuswap Regional District has staff and resources to assist residents impacted by the wildfire, especially those who suffered property damage or loss. The links on this page will be updated regularly to provide the latest information to answer your questions and help residents recover from this wildfire event.
Post-wildfire Landslide Risk
Two public information sessions were held regarding increased landslide risk are planned for residents affected by the Bush Creek East wildfire. Use this link to access our dedicated webpage for more information.
The Province of BC has a Post-Wildfire Natural Hazard Risk Hub where you can find reports about risks from wildfires in our area.
Permits issued for Rebuilding
May 21, 2024
The process of rebuilding in the fire-damaged areas of the North Shuswap has begun with the issuance of building permits for 12 projects, with 10 more in progress, including the replacement of eight single-family homes.
“We are thrilled to have issued these building permits and see these residents move forward with their projects following the devastation caused by the Bush Creek East wildfire,” says Gerald Christie, General Manager, Development Services.
“Rebuilding is happening now in the North Shuswap, and we are committed to working through the necessary processes with property owners as quickly as possible.”
Community Conversations
April 12, 2024
The What We Heard report generated by an independent consulting firm following community conversation events hosted by the Columbia Shuswap Regional District (CSRD) in March is now available for public review. It can be found in the Reports section of the CSRD website under the Emergency Management Reports tab.
In March, the CSRD conducted feedback sessions with residents including four in-person meetings in Sorrento, Anglemont, Celista and at Quaaout Lodge, along with two online sessions. A survey with more than 400 participants was also used to allow residents an opportunity to share their experiences.
- Local Emergency Contacts
Emergency Support Services (ESS) – As of January 15, 2024, ESS services have been transitioned to provincial agencies and non-profit supports. If you have questions, email the Shuswap Emergency Program at sep@csrd.bc.ca or call 250-833-3360.
Shuswap Emergency Map – real-time updates on alerts, fire status and related information
CSRD Emergency Alert System – download Alertable app to receive alerts, notices and advisories
Skwlāx te Secwepemcúl̓ecw (Little Shuswap Lake) https://www.lslb.ca/
Adams Lake Indian Band https://adamslakeband.org
Insurance Bureau of Canada website: ibc.ca or email askIBCwest@ibc.ca call 1-844-227-5422
ICBC website https://icbc.com call 1-800-950-1498
BC Conservation Office – call 1-877-952-7277
BCSPCA website https://spca.bc.ca call 1-855-622-7722
AIM Roads (Ministry of Transportation and Highways contractor) call 1-866-222-4204 for after-hours and emergencies
Drive BC website: drivebc.ca
- Health
BC Guidance for Owners of Property Impacted By Wildfire Contaminants (PDF)
Water and Food Quality: Information for Evacuees Returning after a Fire.
Interior Health Authority. https://www.interiorhealth.ca/health-and-wellness/natural-disasters-and-emergencies/wildfiresDrinking Water Advisory Map. Drinkingwaterforeveryone.ca https://drinkingwaterforeveryone.ca/advisorymap/
Wildfire Smoke and Air Quality and Health Effects of Wildfire Smoke. BC Centre for Disease Control. http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/prevention-public-health/wildfire-smoke
Where can I get mental health support?
Experiencing a disaster such as a wildfire can be particularly stressful and overwhelming. If you need to talk, call the BC Crisis Line / Mental Health Support call 310-6789 (no area code needed) or HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1.
The BC Division of the Canadian Mental Health Association also has significant resources for dealing with natural disaster stress at website cmha.bc.ca.
- Community Support
Who can I contact about local support?
The North Shuswap Disaster Relief Society has been set up with the goal of connecting those in need with funds and services to help. The society is working with the Shuswap Community Foundation to provide support to those residents most in need. Visit nsdisasterrelief.ca for more information or email info@nsdisasterrelief.caHow can I volunteer with the Shuswap Emergency Program?
Contact SEP at 250-832-8194 or sep@csrd.bc.ca.How can I make a financial donation?
The Shuswap Community Foundation has set up an Emergency Response Fund to assist residents affected by the Bush Creek East wildfire. Individuals and other organizations that would like to contribute can do so at www.shuswapfoundation.ca, or in person at any Salmon Arm Savings and Credit Union (SASCU) location. Visit www.sascu.com for more.Where can I donate other items?
Reach out to local thrift stores, churches or other non-profit groups to see if your item can be donated.- Business Support
The Shuswap Economic Recovery Taskforce (SERT) has announced the launch of a comprehensive wildfire recovery program aimed at assisting businesses affected by the Bush Creek East wildfire in the North Shuswap.
SERT is now looking to distribute $50,000 in funding to North Shuswap businesses who experienced wildfire-related loss earlier this year. For more information about the wildfire recovery program or to access the application form, please visit the Shuswap Economic Development website.
- Utilities
Once you are home you may need to re-establish your utilities or check your billing. Contact your provider directly. Included below are some of the common ones in our area.
- BC Hydro call 1-800-BCHYDRO (1-800-224-9376) or FortisBC at 1-866-436-7847
- BC 1 Call (for any underground service inquiries before you dig) website: bc1c.ca or call 1-800-474- 6886
- Fortis BC website https://fortisbc.com Natural gas: 1-888-224-2710 Electricity: 1-866-436-7847
- Rogers/Shaw Toll-free: call 1-888-472-2222 or websites: shaw.ca rogers.com
- TELUS Mobility: *611 on your TELUS mobile phone or call 1-866-558-2273
- TELUS Internet: Toll-free call 1-888-811-2323 or website: telus.com
Note: For private water systems contact your provider or the contractor who regularly services your system.
- Debris and Waste Disposal
Wildfire recovery brings with it many unique and challenging disposal issues. We will assist you to find solutions wherever possible.
Always check with your insurance provider first regarding disposal of solid waste related to wildfires. Insurance may cover the costs of removal and disposal.
Burnt and Fire-Damaged Materials: Clean-Up and Disposal
BC Guidance for Owners of Property Impacted By Wildfire Contaminants (PDF)
BC Guidance for Riparian Areas Clean Up (PDF)
Please note:
- The Scotch Creek and Skimikin residential solid waste transfer stations cannot handle large commercial, industrial, or demolition loads. These sites are designed to handle typical residential waste and small commercial loads only.
- Large demolition/construction and/or burnt material loads must be hauled direct to an operating landfill. The nearest operating landfill is the Salmon Arm landfill.
- Skwlax Aggregates accepts clean concrete and asphalt at $40 per tonne, 7 AM to 4 PM, Monday – Friday. Located directly across the road from the Industrial Park on IR#1. Visit www.skwlaxaggregates.com for more information.
Landfill or Transfer Station Hours and Location
Scotch Creek Transfer Station
3508 Squilax-Anglemont Hwy
Open Friday thru Tuesday,
8 AM to 2 PM.
Closed Wednesdays and ThursdaysSkimikin Transfer Station
2281 Skimikin Road
Open Friday thru Tuesday – 10 AM to 4 PMSalmon Arm Landfill
4290 20th Avenue SE, Salmon Arm
Open 9 AM to 5 PM (7 days a week)For more information:
Columbia Shuswap Regional District
Phone: 250-832-8194
Toll free: 1-888-248-2773
Website: www.CSRD.bc.ca
Email: operations@csrd.bc.ca- Rebuilding
Rebuilding Process from Planning to Permits
The building development process may seem daunting in the aftermath of a natural disaster, but support is available. The CSRD manages the zoning and permitting process for all new construction projects in the region, including building projects related to wildfire loss and damage. CSRD Development Services has trained planners and building officials who will help you navigate the process from start to finish. This section is an overview of the steps to take as we move toward rebuilding, together.Help is Available
Each construction project comes with a unique set of requirements for zoning, development and building that can only be determined once the process is underway.CSRD staff will review your rebuilding ideas and work with you to explain all regulations and requirements specific to your property and suggest possible options for development.
A good first step is to contact CSRD Development Services. Get the facts first. Moving forward with any development project will be much easier if you understand the process and the timeline from the start.
Ready to Get Started?
Things to know before you contact us:- The location of the property − the address, legal description, or nine-digit Parcel Identifier (PID) Number.
- Ideas about what you would like to do or build on your property.
Choose your method of contact:
- Email: plan@csrd.bc.ca
- Email: buildingpermit@csrd.bc.ca
- Phone: 250-832-8194
- Visit the CSRD office at 555 Harbourfront Drive NE, Salmon Arm between 9 AM and 4 PM, Monday to Friday excluding statutory holidays. Appointments are recommended, but not required.
Understanding the Building Development Process
Building Development Touchpoints
While the CSRD manages things like zoning, permits and inspections, there are many other outside services, agencies, and supports that you may interact with as part of the building and development process. Check out the CSRD Building Development Touchpoints for a few examples, and speak with the CSRD for guidance specific to your individual plans.
Click on the picture to enlarge Building Development Process
Anyone undertaking the building development process follows the same steps, but the information, requirements and rules are as unique as each individual property. The Development Process Guide is your map and the CSRD staff are your guides, on hand to help you navigate each step and get you on the road to rebuilding.
Click on the picture to enlarge Archaeology requirements
The Province of BC has created a streamlined archaeology process for rebuilding areas. Find more information from these documents:Archaeology: A Guide for Property Owners and Developers (PDF)
Archaeology: Rebuilding after a Wildfire (PDF)What happens next?
It may take up to several days for a planner or building official to review your ideas and follow up with you.Most responses will be provided by email, so you have a record of the answers and information provided. We can also provide clarification by phone, or virtually, if you prefer to speak directly with someone.
- Flooding and Landslides
Wildfires may increase possible risks associated with flooding and landslides. The following links provide information for property owners to consider in their emergency preparedness.
Landslides and flooding risks due to wildfires (Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development)
Know Your Hazards Landslides – (Prepared BC)
Be Prepared for Floods (Prepared BC)
Landslide Hazards (GetPrepared Canada)
- Additional Resources
BC Extreme Weather Events – Property Assessment Impacts. For questions or concerns you may have about the impact of extreme weather events (including wildfires) on your property assessment.
Farm and Ranch Wildfire Plan Workbook – Preparing for and Responding to Wildfire. BC Ministry of Agriculture https://bcclimatechangeadaptation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/Resources/BC-Farm-Ranch-Wildfire-Plan-2019-workbook.pdf
Last–Minute Checklist for Protecting Your Home and Property from Wildfire.
FireSmart BC. Link to Checklist.Propane safety. Canadian Propane Association https://propane.ca/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/CPA_Wildfires-Safety-Fact-Sheet-2023.pd
Province of BC’s Disaster Financial Assistance Program – Key Information.
Emergency Management BC. http://www.gov.bc.ca/disasterfinancialassistanceFire Recovery Guide. Canadian Red Cross
https://www.redcross.ca/crc/documents/Fire-Recovery-Guide_2017_v3_1.pdfCanadian Red Cross website: redcross.ca
