Prince George, B.C. – The provincial government will spend $6.2 million to help replace livestock fencing and Crown range infrastructure destroyed by this summer’s wildfires.

The Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure has reached a deal with the BC Cattlemen’s Association to do so.

The ministry will spend $2.2 million for the repair and replacement of livestock fences adjacent to provincial highways destroyed by the fires. This in addition to $2 million for the existing 2017-18 Provincial Livestock Fencing Program.

The Ministry will also contribute $4 million towards the repair and replacement of Crown range infrastructure which includes fences that are not along highways, cattle-handling facilities, watering facilities, cabins and other range infrastructure damaged or destroyed by fire.

The government estimates 100 kilometres of fencing along highways has already been damaged or destroyed and more is expected as fires continue to rage throughout the province.

Damage assessments have already taken place on Highway 97, Highway 5A, Highway 1 and Highway 20.

The BC Cattlemen’s will co-ordinate assessment and reconstruction of highway fences impacted by wildfires, using an established list of pre-qualified fencing contractors who are prepared to respond and begin construction on the fencing.

Work will begin immediately and continue through the fall.

Motorists are reminded that until fencing has been replaced, some livestock have moved and may wander onto highways.

Reports of loose livestock should be made to the Ministry of Agriculture at 250-561-3514.