Premier David Eby Announces New Provincial Investment in Youth Climate Corps BC During Kootenay Visit

Photo courtesy of Province of British Columbia

Youth Climate Corps BC (YCCBC) was pleased to welcome Premier David Eby and Brittny Anderson, Minister of State for Local Governments and Rural Communities, to West Arm Provincial Park near Nelson on June 22. During the visit, they met with members of the Wildsight Youth Climate Corps Kootenay crews and learned more about the climate action projects young people are leading in the region.

Crew members had the opportunity to share their experiences working on wildfire risk reduction and ecosystem restoration projects that help protect Nelson's watershed and critical infrastructure. They also spoke about what it means to be part of YCCBC gaining hands-on experience, developing valuable skills for the growing green workforce, and making a meaningful contribution to their communities at the same time.

The visit included the announcement of $1.4 million in new provincial funding through a shared-cost agreement to support the continued growth of Youth Climate Corps BC. This builds on the Province's previous $3 million investment in YCCBC announced in 2024 and demonstrates continued support for youth-led climate action across British Columbia.

Photo courtesy of Province of British Columbia

What began in Nelson in 2020 as a local initiative has grown into a province-wide program that connects young people with paid climate-action work, training opportunities, and mentorship. Each season, participants gain experience in a wide range of projects, from ecosystem restoration and wildfire preparedness to food security, energy efficiency, environmental education, and community engagement.

The new investment comes as YCCBC prepares for its largest season yet. In 2026, programs are running in 11 communities across British Columbia, including Alert Bay, Courtenay, East Kootenay, Hazelton, Kamloops, Kelowna, Richmond, Squamish, Vernon, Victoria, and West Kootenay, with more to come.

Interest in the program continues to far exceed the number of positions available. This year, more than 600 young people applied for approximately 60 crew positions, reflecting the strong desire among youth to gain practical experience, build careers that make a difference, and take part in climate solutions in their own communities.

We're grateful to the Province of British Columbia, our community partners, and the many young people whose energy, dedication, and leadership make this work possible. Together, we're creating opportunities for the next generation while helping communities become more resilient in the face of a changing climate.

Read the Province of British Columbia's full announcement to learn more about the funding and visit.