Why some B.C. farmers stay to fight, despite wildfire evacuation orders

Some British Columbia farmers are defying mandatory wildfire evacuation orders to remain on their properties, driven by the desire to protect their homes, orchards, and livestock rather than abandon generations of agricultural work. The situation highlights the severe risks and personal stakes faced by agricultural communities dealing with recurrent wildfire threats.

Specific instances include orchard owners near Vernon, B.C., such as Tom Davison, whose family invested in private firefighting equipment like hoses following a previous wildfire in 2021 that caused smoke damage to the property. While initially uncertain if the equipment would see further use, the family and other area farmers are now utilizing private preparations to defend their generational livelihoods against active blazes.