Vavenby Fire Department members and apparatus/via TNRD

Locals in Birch Island — between Clearwater and Vavenby — are in the midst of deciding whether they want fire protection from the TNRD.

The concept would be to absorb Birch Island into the Vavenby Fire Protection Area.

Usoff Tsao, TNRD Director for the Area, says they’re currently gauging the level of interest among the 131 property owners in the Birch Island area, suggesting it will be up to them to decide whether to join up, noting it will come at a cost.

“The number our TNRD staff came up with, the estimate, is 1.07 per 1000 dollars of assessment,” notes Tsao.

Tsao says if Birch Island signs on, they would get their own fire bay within 3 years, as well as other benefits.

“It’s not just fire protection, but also our Vavenby Volunteer Fire Department are trained in medical response as well,” said Tsao.  “Our residents in Birch Island would be able to contribute their volunteer time toward the Vavenby department.”

The TNRD, which Tsao says initiated the idea, argues Birch Island would see its insurance costs lowered if they join on.

A survey for locals to voice their opinions is open until March 15th, following which the TNRD will then assess the level of interest and decide whether to move forward.

If Birch Islanders do show enough interest, the TNRD expects to put together a public assent process — referendum or petition — in the fall, with fire coverage to begin at the start of 2025 if approved.