Downton Lake 2023 Wildfire Recovery

Thank you for visiting the SLRD’s wildfire recovery website. This site was launched in late 2023 to provide a central location for recovery-related information, resources and updates. We have recently refreshed this website to capture information about current questions and concerns coming from the community. Continue to visit the site and subscribe to our email list to be notified of important updates.

The SLRD Board, the CAO, and the recovery team recognize this is a challenging time for the community. We want to reiterate our commitment to listening to concerns, providing regular and transparent information even when it’s difficult news, and collaborating with affected residents, government and agency partners to offer clarity, and assist you as we are able throughout this process.

Latest Updates

View the Frequently Asked Questions for answers to your most recent questions on: Concrete, outhouses, RVs, shipping containers, property tax deferrals and more. Keep reaching out to the appropriate contact or use the “Questions” form below if you have a question or concern that hasn’t been addressed.

Riparian Update: The Ministry of Water, Lands and Resource Stewardship (WLRS) and the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness (EMCR) has provided an update on new riparian direction and QEP reimbursement for debris-clearing assessment.

We are happy to share that part of this new pathway includes provisions that will allow those affected by the wildfire to rebuild their home (not including accessory structures like sheds and hot tubs) on the same footprint as the one that was lost (no larger). Learn how it can apply to you by reading the detailed Riparian Direction document, found in the Riparian Section.

Fully-funded tree replanting program – registration required by July 31: The SLRD, in partnership with a number of Gun Lake residents, has been working with Cariboo Carbon Solutions (CCS) on an initiative that will replant seedling trees on affected private properties at no cost to landowners. CCS will develop replanting plans in collaboration with individual landowners to best suit the replanting needs of your property. We encourage all affected residents to indicate their willingness to participate in this program.

To participate, property owners must complete a CCS Private Landowner Intake Form to confirm interest in this program. Email completed forms to: andrew@cariboocarbon.ca by CCS’s July 31, 2024 deadline.

Additional information can be found in the Tree Replanting FAQ and the CCS Info Sheet.