Media Releases

The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) has launched Phase 2 engagement for its Solid Waste Collection Network as part of its comprehensive review of its solid waste facility network. The review considered the number and location of facilities, the services provided at each facility, how often the facilities are used, the distances travelled to access the facilities and the cost of operating and maintaining the system over time. The review also included feedback received during Phase 1 engagement, which took place in March 2026.

At its meeting on August 13, 2026, the PRRD Board of Directors voted to abandon Regional Zoning Bylaw No. 2582, 2025. The Board also approved seeking an extension from the Minister of Housing and Municipal Affairs to allow the PRRD to update its existing zoning bylaws to achieve compliance with provincial housing legislation.

"The decision to discontinue a unified Regional Zoning Bylaw does not diminish the tremendous amount of work that went into this initiative," says Board Chair Sperling. "Over the past year, staff, directors, committee members and residents invested significant time and effort reviewing regulations, sharing perspectives and helping shape the discussion around land use and housing in our region. That work has provided valuable insights that will continue to support the PRRD as we move forward with updating our existing zoning bylaws."

PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT, BC — The Charlie Lake Fire Department (CLFD) has deployed personnel and equipment to support wildfire response efforts in the Merritt area at the request of the BC Wildfire Service.

On August 8, CLFD deployed Tactical Tender 1 and two firefighters, Lt. Chris Pelley and Lt. Miranda Moineau, on a 14-day assignment. The members will work alongside crews from across British Columbia supporting wildfire suppression activities and helping protect communities affected by ongoing wildfire activity.

PEACE RIVER REGIONAL DISTRICT, BC — As wildfire seasons grow longer and more intense across British Columbia, the Peace River Regional District (PRRD) is reminding eligible residents to take advantage of free, hands-on help to protect their homes.

Professional crews from Mammoth Forestry will complete physical wildfire mitigation landscape work around eligible properties at zero cost to the homeowner. This dedicated support service is available for seniors and persons with mobility challenges, through the PRRD’s FireSmart™ program.

Services include:

• Clearing gutters and removing yard brush
• Pruning trees and removing fuel sources near homes
• Chipping wood and completing ladder work

The Peace River Regional District (PRRD), in collaboration with its municipal partners, is inviting residents to the second round of engagement to help shape the region’s new Hazard, Risk and Vulnerability Analysis (HRVA). PRRD project team members are inviting residents to participate in an online survey and community events across the region from August 11 to August 23.

Earlier this year, residents shared their perspectives on the hazards and risks that matter most to their communities. This next round of engagement focuses on sharing what was heard and identifying actions that can be taken to reduce these identified risks.

Dawson Creek, BC – February 11, 2026 – The Peace River Regional District (PRRD) is profoundly saddened by the tragic events of February 10, 2026, at Tumbler Ridge Secondary School. On behalf of the PRRD Board of Directors, I offer our sincerest condolences to everyone affected by this devastating loss.

The District of Tumbler Ridge is part of our regional family and this tragedy is felt deeply across the entire Peace region. Our hearts go out to the children, staff, family, first responders, community, Mayor Darryl Krakowka, Council and every resident of Tumbler Ridge as they navigate this incredibly difficult time. We grieve alongside you.