Apply Now: Kootenay ʔa·kinq̓uku TREX
BC PRESCRIBED FIRE TRAINING EXCHANGE
September 13-26, 2026 | Canal Flats, B.C.
Applications are now open for Kootenay ʔa·kinq̓uku TREX. The BC Wildfire Service and Ktunaxa First Nation are collaboratively delivering the third Kootenay-based prescribed fire training exchange (TREX) this fall, with support from the First Nations’ Emergency Services Society and UBC Okanagan’s Canadian Prescribed Fire Training Program.
WHAT IS TREX?
TREX is a unique, cooperative, prescribed burning training model that provides hands-on learning with a focus on local landscapes and values. firenetworks.org/trex
The third offering of Kootenay ʔa·kinq̓uku TREX will be hosted in the Canal Flats area, following our pilot in 2024 and successful second offering in 2025.
We are grateful to be able to continue to learn together on ʔamakʔis Ktunaxa.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS
All participants must complete:
• a moderate pack test (this fitness test can be self-administered)
• S-100 Basic Fire Suppression and Safety
• I-100 Introduction to the Incident Command Systems
• CIFFC’s S-290 Principles of Fire Behaviour or S-390 Intermediate Fire Behaviour
If needed, we will work with successful applicants to connect them with the above training in their community or online.
For more information, reach out to BCWS.TREXKootenay@gov.bc.ca.
HOW TO APPLY
Follow the link to access the online application form.
Need support? Email: BCWS.TREXKootenay@gov.bc.ca
What can you expect?
Daily activities will depend on weather conditions. Our goal is to provide participants with experiential learning on prescribed fire projects throughout the East Kootenay. This can mean long days (12 hours) in the field.
If conditions are not suitable for burning, participants will learn through in-class sessions, field trips, guest speakers and peer-to-peer knowledge sharing.
Course themes will include:
• Indigenous knowledge and traditional use of fire
• Fire ecology and fire effects
• Prescribed fire planning and implementation
• Experience and training in live prescribed fire scenarios
Who can apply?
Anyone can apply. The selection process will prioritize a range of experience levels, Indigenous representation, relationship-building with local partners, and training needs. BC Wildfire Service staff, please follow the provincial training solicitation process.
There is no registration fee.
Meals & Accommodation:
We’re proud that TREX is being hosted on ʔamakʔis Ktunaxa.
Training space, meals and accommodation (camping spaces) will be provided at no charge. Shower and laundry facilities will be available. Participants are responsible for their own tenting/camping supplies.
Additional Costs:
Participants and employers are required to cover costs associated with travel to and from the event and are responsible for all paid and/or vacation time, including overtime, accrued during TREX.
All participants need to come with Personal Protective Equipment.
Please let us know if you need support accessing equipment.
Applications:
Applications will close at 11:59 pm on June 8.
We intend to notify successful applicants by mid-July.
