Sooke 2030 Climate Action Plan: Implementation

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The District of Sooke’s Climate Action Plan brings you closer to home where you can enjoy more time with family and friends, share in a thriving local economy, and appreciate our natural environment and abundant wildlife.

By re-thinking how we move, what kind of buildings we live and work in, where our energy comes from and how we interact with each other and in our community, we can become richer than we ever thought possible.

Sooke is striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and 100% by 2050.

By inherently applying consideration for the environment, we will enhance the quality of life in Sooke – for generations to come. It will take all of us, working together, to reach this target.

See what the district is doing and how you can get involved as we synchronize our efforts toward Sooke 2030. Follow the implementation of the Sooke: 2030 Climate Action Plan on this page.

Video: We invited residents to draw the future they desire for Sooke. This drawing is a community collaboration and the story is one of change to enhance the quality of life in Sooke. Together, our story is captured here:

The District of Sooke’s Climate Action Plan brings you closer to home where you can enjoy more time with family and friends, share in a thriving local economy, and appreciate our natural environment and abundant wildlife.

By re-thinking how we move, what kind of buildings we live and work in, where our energy comes from and how we interact with each other and in our community, we can become richer than we ever thought possible.

Sooke is striving to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and 100% by 2050.

By inherently applying consideration for the environment, we will enhance the quality of life in Sooke – for generations to come. It will take all of us, working together, to reach this target.

See what the district is doing and how you can get involved as we synchronize our efforts toward Sooke 2030. Follow the implementation of the Sooke: 2030 Climate Action Plan on this page.

Video: We invited residents to draw the future they desire for Sooke. This drawing is a community collaboration and the story is one of change to enhance the quality of life in Sooke. Together, our story is captured here:

  • Growing Together at Sooke Seedy Saturday on February 28

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    As the days grow a little longer and early signs of spring begin to emerge, Sooke Seedy Saturday offers a welcome opportunity to gather, learn, and get inspired for the growing season ahead.

    On Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Sooke Community Hall (2037 Shields Rd.), the Sooke Region Food CHI Society will host its annual celebration of seeds, sustainable food growing, and community connection.

    Over the years, Seedy Saturday has become a much-loved local tradition. It’s a place where seasoned gardeners and first-time growers alike come to swap stories, share seeds, ask questions,

    As the days grow a little longer and early signs of spring begin to emerge, Sooke Seedy Saturday offers a welcome opportunity to gather, learn, and get inspired for the growing season ahead.

    On Saturday, February 28, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Sooke Community Hall (2037 Shields Rd.), the Sooke Region Food CHI Society will host its annual celebration of seeds, sustainable food growing, and community connection.

    Over the years, Seedy Saturday has become a much-loved local tradition. It’s a place where seasoned gardeners and first-time growers alike come to swap stories, share seeds, ask questions, and discover something new. More than anything, it’s a reminder that growing food is about more than what happens in the soil - it’s about the relationships and knowledge we cultivate along the way.

    A highlight of this year’s event is a series of short, engaging workshops designed to offer practical advice in accessible 30-minute sessions, each followed by time for questions.

    Attendees can dig into:

    • Composting with REGEN Landscape (10:30 – 11:15 a.m.) — simple, effective techniques to enrich your soil and reduce household waste.
    • Raising Chickens with Mrs. Lewer’s Farmhouse (11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.) — helpful guidance on getting started with backyard hens.
    • Growing Mushrooms with MurderBay Mushrooms (12:30 – 1:15 p.m.) — an introduction to cultivating mushrooms at home.
    • Native Seeds & Plants with SatinFlower Nurseries (1:30 – 2:15 p.m.) — practical insights into choosing native species that help pollinators and local ecosystems flourish.

    These friendly, hands-on sessions are designed to spark ideas, build confidence, and support local food growing in all its forms. Whether you’re sowing your first seeds, setting up a backyard coop, or expanding what you already grow at home, you’re sure to leave with practical tips and fresh inspiration to help your skills, and your harvest, thrive.

    In addition to the workshops, visitors can explore a wide variety of seeds and plant starts from local growers, browse garden goods and services, and connect with organizations working to strengthen food sustainability in our region. Families can enjoy hands-on children’s activities hosted by the Sooke Children’s Garden, and attendees will have the chance to win door prizes generously donated by event vendors.

    Admission is by donation, ensuring the event remains accessible to the entire community while supporting the food security and education initiatives of the Sooke Region Food CHI Society.

    “Sooke Seedy Saturday is a wonderful example of what makes our community special,” says Christina Moog, Manager of Communications and Community Relations for the District of Sooke. “We’re grateful to the Sooke Region Food CHI Society, the participating organizations, and all of the workshop facilitators who generously share their knowledge and passion. Their leadership and generosity help build local food resilience and create opportunities for neighbours to connect, learn, and grow together..”

    As we look ahead to longer days and greener gardens, Seedy Saturday offers the perfect place to gather ideas, connect with neighbours, and get growing — together.

    For more information, visit the Sooke Region Food CHI Society website: www.sookefoodchi.ca.

  • T’Sou-ke Nation Collaboration and BC Hydro Regreening Grant Provide Park Restoration and Ecosystem Enhancements

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    In collaboration with the T’Sou-ke Nation and with a $7,210 BC Hydro Regreening Grant, the District is restoring local ecosystems, improving water quality, and enhancing green spaces at John Phillips Memorial Park, Broomhill Playground and Helgeson Park for all residents to enjoy.

    "We are pleased to work together in caring for these sensitive areas and protecting the streams that flow through places like Nott Pond and Helgesen Creek. This project demonstrates our shared commitment and responsibility to steward the territory for generations to come," says T’Sou-ke Nation Chief Larry Underwood.

    “This project reflects our ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and

    In collaboration with the T’Sou-ke Nation and with a $7,210 BC Hydro Regreening Grant, the District is restoring local ecosystems, improving water quality, and enhancing green spaces at John Phillips Memorial Park, Broomhill Playground and Helgeson Park for all residents to enjoy.

    "We are pleased to work together in caring for these sensitive areas and protecting the streams that flow through places like Nott Pond and Helgesen Creek. This project demonstrates our shared commitment and responsibility to steward the territory for generations to come," says T’Sou-ke Nation Chief Larry Underwood.

    “This project reflects our ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and thoughtful park management,” shares Emma Taylor, Facilities, Parks and Environmental Services Manager. “By planting native species and restoring riparian zones, we are supporting biodiversity, protecting water quality, and creating healthier parks for our community. We’re grateful to BC Hydro for funding and our T’Sou-ke Nation partners in supporting this important work.”

    Project Scope

    John Phillips Memorial Park
    Native trees and shrubs will be planted around Nott Pond and its tributaries to restore important habitat, improve water quality, and reduce the spread of invasive reed canary grass.

    Broomhill Playground Park
    Located at the headwaters of Helgesen Stream, this area will see continued restoration of sensitive riparian habitat. A split rail fence will be extended to protect vegetation, and native species like sedges and ferns will be planted to help stabilize the streambanks.

    Helgesen Park
    This small neighbourhood park and trail connector currently lacks tree cover. Three large deciduous trees will be planted to provide shade, add beauty, and support climate resilience.

    Tree and shrub planting in all three parks is scheduled for Fall 2025. District staff will mulch and water the new plantings for the first three growing seasons to ensure healthy establishment.

    The District thanks BC Hydro for their investment in Sooke’s natural spaces through the Regreening Program. To learn more about the program, visit:

    Native vegetation and riparian planting at Nott Pond in John Phillips Memorial Park are helping to restore habitat, improve water quality, and support biodiversity thanks to a collaborative project between the District of Sooke, the T’Sou-ke Nation, and funding from BC Hydro’s Regreening Program.

  • Refresh Your Sewing Stash at the Sewing Supplies Swap

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    The District of Sooke is pleased to share a creative, waste-reducing community event at the Sooke Library. Hosted by Zero Waste Sooke in collaboration with the Vancouver Island Regional Library, this free swap invites residents to browse for new-to-you materials, share what they no longer need, and connect with fellow makers.

    Event details

    • Date: Sunday, March 8, 2026
    • Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
    • Location: Sooke Multipurpose Room, Vancouver Island Regional Library

    How it works

    Bring donations of good-condition sewing supplies to help them find a new home, and pick up fresh materials for free while supplies last.

    Donation drop-off:

    The District of Sooke is pleased to share a creative, waste-reducing community event at the Sooke Library. Hosted by Zero Waste Sooke in collaboration with the Vancouver Island Regional Library, this free swap invites residents to browse for new-to-you materials, share what they no longer need, and connect with fellow makers.

    Event details

    • Date: Sunday, March 8, 2026
    • Time: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
    • Location: Sooke Multipurpose Room, Vancouver Island Regional Library

    How it works

    Bring donations of good-condition sewing supplies to help them find a new home, and pick up fresh materials for free while supplies last.

    Donation drop-off:

    Supplies can be dropped off at the Sooke Library from March 1–8.

    Community members of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to take part in this welcoming event that supports reuse, creativity and waste reduction in Sooke.

  • Workshops Build Food Security and Community Resilience in Sooke

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    This fall, the District of Sooke in partnership with the Sooke Library and the Compost Education Centre is inviting residents to gather, learn, and connect through a free series of practical workshops. Funded by the Local Government Climate Action Program, these sessions focus on food security and community resilience, offering tools that help households grow and share more of their own food.

    Workshop Schedule (all sessions start at 10:30 a.m. at the Sooke Library):

    Beyond learning new skills, participants will have the chance to meet neighbours who share a passion for sustainability and local food. Each session includes a draw for a gift basket featuring local products, offered as a thank you for attending and for contributing to Sooke’s collective resiliency.

    “Food connects us,” says Kayla Siefried, Instructor and Education Director at the Compost Education Centre. “By building composting and gardening skills, we’re not just reducing waste or growing vegetables - we’re strengthening local food systems, supporting each other, and building a community that can thrive together.”

    The Compost Education Centre has been delivering hands-on environmental education across the region for more than 30 years. “When we come together in spaces like this,” adds Siefried, “we create opportunities for knowledge-sharing, neighbour-to-neighbour connections, and the kind of resilience that makes communities strong.”

    Registration:

    Workshops are free, and space is limited. Register through the Sooke Library.

    This fall, the District of Sooke in partnership with the Sooke Library and the Compost Education Centre is inviting residents to gather, learn, and connect through a free series of practical workshops. Funded by the Local Government Climate Action Program, these sessions focus on food security and community resilience, offering tools that help households grow and share more of their own food.

    Workshop Schedule (all sessions start at 10:30 a.m. at the Sooke Library):

    Beyond learning new skills, participants will have the chance to meet neighbours who share a passion for sustainability and local food. Each session includes a draw for a gift basket featuring local products, offered as a thank you for attending and for contributing to Sooke’s collective resiliency.

    “Food connects us,” says Kayla Siefried, Instructor and Education Director at the Compost Education Centre. “By building composting and gardening skills, we’re not just reducing waste or growing vegetables - we’re strengthening local food systems, supporting each other, and building a community that can thrive together.”

    The Compost Education Centre has been delivering hands-on environmental education across the region for more than 30 years. “When we come together in spaces like this,” adds Siefried, “we create opportunities for knowledge-sharing, neighbour-to-neighbour connections, and the kind of resilience that makes communities strong.”

    Registration:

    Workshops are free, and space is limited. Register through the Sooke Library.

  • Ready to Retrofit? Learn from the Experts at Sooke’s Retrofit Festival– June 7 at Woodside Farm

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    A part of the 25th Anniversary Community Day Celebration!

    Curious about heat pumps? Wondering if your home is ready for an energy retrofit? Whether you’re planning renovations or just starting to explore, the Sooke Retrofit Community Festival is your chance to connect with leading experts and get practical advice on making your home more energy efficient.

    Taking place on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Woodside Farm (7149 West Coast Road, Sooke), this one-day event offers expert-led panels, contractor demos, and hands-on guidance for residents interested in reducing energy bills, increasing comfort, and improving

    A part of the 25th Anniversary Community Day Celebration!

    Curious about heat pumps? Wondering if your home is ready for an energy retrofit? Whether you’re planning renovations or just starting to explore, the Sooke Retrofit Community Festival is your chance to connect with leading experts and get practical advice on making your home more energy efficient.

    Taking place on Saturday, June 7, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Woodside Farm (7149 West Coast Road, Sooke), this one-day event offers expert-led panels, contractor demos, and hands-on guidance for residents interested in reducing energy bills, increasing comfort, and improving home performance.

    Funded through the Local Government Climate Action Program, the Retrofit Festival is about equipping Sooke residents with the tools, support, and knowledge to take climate-wise steps at their own pace.

    “The Retrofit Festival is one way we’re looking to the future—equipping our residents with the information and resources to make energy-smart choices at their own pace,” says Chris Marshall, Director of Planning and Development for the District of Sooke. “We recognize that not everyone is ready to make these investments today. But for those who are, or are just starting to explore their options, we want to ensure they feel supported, informed, and empowered to take action that benefits both their household and the environment.”

    Expert Panel Schedule

    (Presentation Tents – inside Woodside Farm Grounds)

    Time Presentation Site 1 Presentation Site 2
    Noon–1 PM Liam Butters – Ecology Consulting Your house as a system and what to consider when getting a heat pump Mark Bernhardt – Bernhardt Contracting Retrofitting towards net zero
    1–2 PM Jeffrey Robinson – Canadian Association of Certified Energy Advisors What is an EnerGuide evaluation and when should you get one? Cameron Lockhart – CarbonWise Consulting Planning larger retrofits while avoiding an electric service upgrade
    2–3 PM Cameron Lockhart – CarbonWise Consulting Insulation & Air Sealing Wendy Wall – Vancouver Island Strata Owners Association Planning upgrades for Stratas

    Living Library & Expert Alley – Open 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

    Meet the Panelists:

    • Liam Butters – Ecology Consulting: A Professional Engineer and Certified Energy Manager with deep expertise in building science and energy performance. Liam helps homeowners and businesses balance practical realities with energy efficiency goals.
    • Mark Bernhardt – Bernhardt Contracting: A leading voice in Canada’s high-performance building movement, Mark is a Passive House Consultant who develops tools, trains builders, and promotes the adoption of energy-efficient construction practices.
    • Jeffrey Robinson – Canadian Association of Certified Energy Advisors: An experienced energy advisor and Red Seal carpenter who has completed more than 1,000 EnerGuide evaluations. Jeffrey specializes in supporting both new builds and renovations with education-first guidance.
    • Wendy Wall – Vancouver Island Strata Owners Association: As president of a long-standing non-profit supporting strata owners, Wendy helps residents of duplexes, townhouses, and condos navigate rebates, legal steps, and planning considerations for energy retrofits and EV charging infrastructure.
    • Cameron Lockhart – CarbonWise Consulting: With over a decade in the trades and six years as an energy advisor, Cameron brings practical insight into retrofitting homes for climate goals—especially for those undertaking larger-scale or phased upgrades.

    Whether you're a homeowner, renter, or strata council member, this is your opportunity to get inspired, get informed, and take your next step toward a more efficient home. For Retrofit Festival details, visit: citygreen.ca/projects/sooke-retrofit-community-festival View the Retrofit Festival Experience Programme Brochure: Retrofit Festival Brochure Sooke (PDF) To learn more about the 25th Anniversary Community Day Celebration, visit: sooke.ca/events.

  • Free Climate Action Workshop – May 31 & June 14

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    The District of Sooke is supporting Liveable Futures, a free two-part workshop series to help residents take practical, affordable climate action.

    Join us at WorkLink (2096 Church Road) from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 31 and Saturday, June 14.

    “This is a chance to learn together, connect with neighbours, and take steps—big or small—that feel right for you,” says Christina Moog, Manager of Communications and Community Relations.

    Workshops include tips to reduce emissions, save money, and access rebates. Open to Sooke residents 18+. Registration is on a sliding scale.

    Learn more and register: fireweedlearningcommons.ca/workshop

    The District of Sooke is supporting Liveable Futures, a free two-part workshop series to help residents take practical, affordable climate action.

    Join us at WorkLink (2096 Church Road) from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 31 and Saturday, June 14.

    “This is a chance to learn together, connect with neighbours, and take steps—big or small—that feel right for you,” says Christina Moog, Manager of Communications and Community Relations.

    Workshops include tips to reduce emissions, save money, and access rebates. Open to Sooke residents 18+. Registration is on a sliding scale.

    Learn more and register: fireweedlearningcommons.ca/workshop

  • FREE! Container Gardening Workshop

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    Whether you have a patio, balcony, or small backyard, you can grow fresh vegetables, fruits, and flowers right at home! The District, in partnership with the Compost Education Centre and Vancouver Island Regional Library, invites residents to attend a free Container Gardening Workshop on Thursday, June 12 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Sooke Library.

    Perfect for beginners or seasoned gardeners looking to expand their skills, this hands-on session will explore:

    • The best types of containers for healthy plants
    • Soil and nutrient tips for maximum growth
    • Top varieties of vegetables, fruits, and flowers to grow in containers

    Participants will gain practical knowledge on how to create and maintain productive container gardens that bring nourishment and beauty into any space.

    This workshop is part of a complimentary community education series designed to support local food security and climate resilience in Sooke.

    Pre-registration is required. Sign up here: virl.bc.ca/event/container-gardening/

    Whether you have a patio, balcony, or small backyard, you can grow fresh vegetables, fruits, and flowers right at home! The District, in partnership with the Compost Education Centre and Vancouver Island Regional Library, invites residents to attend a free Container Gardening Workshop on Thursday, June 12 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Sooke Library.

    Perfect for beginners or seasoned gardeners looking to expand their skills, this hands-on session will explore:

    • The best types of containers for healthy plants
    • Soil and nutrient tips for maximum growth
    • Top varieties of vegetables, fruits, and flowers to grow in containers

    Participants will gain practical knowledge on how to create and maintain productive container gardens that bring nourishment and beauty into any space.

    This workshop is part of a complimentary community education series designed to support local food security and climate resilience in Sooke.

    Pre-registration is required. Sign up here: virl.bc.ca/event/container-gardening/

  • Call for Participants: Join Sooke’s 2025 Earth Day Celebration!

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    The District of Sooke invites local organizations, businesses, and community groups to participate in the 2025 Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM alongside the opening day of the Sooke Country Market on the greenspace beside Fire Station One (2225 Otter Point Road).

    This family-friendly event will bring the community together to celebrate sustainability, environmental stewardship, and climate action—key pillars of the District’s Climate Action Plan, which envisions a resilient and low-carbon community that protects and regenerates the natural environment while fostering a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable local economy.

    We are seeking

    The District of Sooke invites local organizations, businesses, and community groups to participate in the 2025 Earth Day Celebration on Saturday, April 26, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM alongside the opening day of the Sooke Country Market on the greenspace beside Fire Station One (2225 Otter Point Road).

    This family-friendly event will bring the community together to celebrate sustainability, environmental stewardship, and climate action—key pillars of the District’s Climate Action Plan, which envisions a resilient and low-carbon community that protects and regenerates the natural environment while fostering a thriving, inclusive, and sustainable local economy.

    We are seeking additional participants to showcase initiatives, offer interactive activities, and engage with the community on solutions for a healthier planet.

    A fantastic lineup of organizations has already signed up, including:

    Join these incredible organizations in making a difference! Whether you’re a local business promoting sustainable products, an environmental group sharing conservation efforts, or an educator with hands-on learning activities, we welcome your participation.

    Each registered participant will be provided with a table, chairs, and a tent (unless otherwise requested). Spaces will be set up by 8:30 AM, and participants are asked to have their setup complete by 9:45 AM before the event officially begins at 10:00 AM.

    This event, in partnership with the Sooke Country Market’s opening day, highlights the importance of sustainable local economies. Supporting local food producers and artisans is a key action in the District’s Climate Action Plan, which calls for a vibrant, climate-resilient food system to reduce our carbon footprint and strengthen community well-being.

    Please sign up online for the April 26th event or call 250.642.1634.

    Come be a part of Sooke’s Earth Day Celebration and help inspire a greener future!

    For more on the Sooke Country Market or to sign up as a Sooke Country Market Season vendor, please see their website:

    Event contact:
    Christina Moog
    Manager, Communications and Community Relations
    Tel: 250.642.1634, ext. 678
    cmoog@sooke.ca

  • Reminder: Upcoming Grant Deadline – Community Climate Action Funding Available

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    The District of Sooke is reminding community organizations of the upcoming deadline to apply for the 2025 Community Grants Program. This program provides funding to support local initiatives that benefit the community.

    Notably, the former Climate Action Seed Funding Program has now been incorporated into the Community Grants Program to streamline processes and better manage staff resources. As a result, projects focused on community climate action are encouraged to apply under this initiative. This integration aims to support innovative solutions that contribute to climate resilience and sustainability within Sooke.

    Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to review the application guidelines and submit their proposals before the deadline.

    Don't miss this opportunity to secure funding for your community project! We look forward to receiving your applications.

    The District of Sooke is reminding community organizations of the upcoming deadline to apply for the 2025 Community Grants Program. This program provides funding to support local initiatives that benefit the community.

    Notably, the former Climate Action Seed Funding Program has now been incorporated into the Community Grants Program to streamline processes and better manage staff resources. As a result, projects focused on community climate action are encouraged to apply under this initiative. This integration aims to support innovative solutions that contribute to climate resilience and sustainability within Sooke.

    Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to review the application guidelines and submit their proposals before the deadline.

    Don't miss this opportunity to secure funding for your community project! We look forward to receiving your applications.

  • $1,000 Rebates Available for Sooke Residents Participating in FireSmart Stewardship

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    Residents of Sooke can access up to $1,000 in rebates for taking steps to protect their homes and properties from wildfire. The FireSmart Rebate Program, supported by the District of Sooke, provides reimbursement for 50% of eligible expenses up to $1,000 to encourage homeowners to implement recommended wildfire mitigation measures and enhance community safety.

    This initiative is made possible through funding from the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Community Resiliency Investment (CRI) program under the FireSmart Community Funding & Supports stream. This funding helps communities reduce wildfire risks and build long-term resilience.

    To qualify for the rebate, residents must

    Residents of Sooke can access up to $1,000 in rebates for taking steps to protect their homes and properties from wildfire. The FireSmart Rebate Program, supported by the District of Sooke, provides reimbursement for 50% of eligible expenses up to $1,000 to encourage homeowners to implement recommended wildfire mitigation measures and enhance community safety.

    This initiative is made possible through funding from the Union of BC Municipalities (UBCM) Community Resiliency Investment (CRI) program under the FireSmart Community Funding & Supports stream. This funding helps communities reduce wildfire risks and build long-term resilience.

    To qualify for the rebate, residents must first book a free FireSmart Home Assessment through Sooke Fire Rescue by calling 250-642-5422. During this assessment, the District’s Certified FireSmart Coordinator will identify specific actions property owners can take to reduce wildfire risk.

    Eligible Expenses for Reimbursement Include:

    • Removal of combustible vegetation and debris (e.g., branches, leaves, etc.)
    • Upgrading landscaping with fire-resistant plants and materials
    • Replacing combustible fencing, decks, or siding with non-combustible alternatives
    • Installing ember-resistant vents and screens
    • Clearing and maintaining defensible space around structures

    “The FireSmart Rebate Program is an incredible opportunity for residents to take proactive steps in safeguarding their properties against wildfire,” says Madison Crawford, District of Sooke FireSmart Program Coordinator and Fire/Life Safety Inspector. “By making small but impactful changes, homeowners can significantly enhance their home’s resilience while contributing to the overall safety of our community.”

    Residents are encouraged to act early, as rebates are available on a first-come, first-served basis while funding lasts.

Page last updated: 17 Jun 2026, 11:12 AM