Oakstead can play a vital role in assessing and planning your property to reduce the risk and impact of wildfires through effective Vegetation Management Planning. By conducting a thorough evaluation of your property’s vegetation, trees, and overall layout, a consultant can identify areas of concern, such as excess fuel loads, vulnerable tree species, or overgrown areas near structures. They can then provide recommendations to create defensible space around buildings and improve wildfire resistance. These plans often include selective thinning of trees, removal of deadwood and combustible vegetation, and strategies for maintaining healthier, more fire-resistant landscapes. Additionally, tree consultants can guide the placement and selection of vegetation to mitigate the potential spread of wildfires and reduce property damage.
At Oakstead, Richard brings over 15 years of experience in wildfire suppression and prescribed burning to help property owners better prepare for wildfire risks. As a former Class “C” Fire Boss, he has extensive knowledge of managing forest and rangeland fires across British Columbia, including issuing Burning Permits for the Province of BC. His expertise also extends to collaborative wildfire planning, as demonstrated by his participation in one of the province’s first interface wildfire projects in 1991, where he assisted with efforts between the BC Forest Service and municipal firefighters for the City of Salmon Arm. With this deep understanding of wildfire behavior and mitigation strategies, Richard and the Oakstead team are uniquely equipped to develop customized Property Vegetation Management Plans that reduce the chances of wildfire, minimize impacts, and protect your property and surrounding ecosystem. And we have a crew to deliver the changes on the ground if that is requested. Whether you’re seeking a proactive plan for wildfire mitigation or need guidance on improving existing vegetation management practices, we provide the expertise and solutions to enhance your property’s safety and resilience.
If you’d like to just get the conversation started, or want to schedule a viewing of your trees in the Saanich and Victoria area, please give us a call at 250-652-9223 or fill out our online contact form and we’ll get right back to you.