Kelowna, B.C. – A new documentary, B.C. is Burning, is tackling British Columbia’s wildfire crisis by exploring forest management solutions.
The project was sparked in 2024 when Kelowna entrepreneur Rick Maddison, who lost his home in the 2003 Okanagan Mountain Park wildfire, came across an article by retired forester Murray Wilson about wildfire prevention. The two teamed up to create a film focused on solutions rather than devastation.
“I’m hoping if these ideas in the film are adopted, more communities can be protected from this ongoing threat,” says Maddison.
Filming, led by Okanagan-based Distill Media, has taken place throughout B.C., Nevada, and California—where the team observed innovative forest management techniques designed to make wildfires more controllable and less destructive.
The documentary features interviews with leading experts, including scientists, carbon specialists, and forestry professionals, providing a comprehensive look at the problem and potential solutions.
“We’ve spoken with some of the leading people in the field,” says Wilson. “Their insights could change how we manage our forests—and how we protect our communities.”
The team is hoping to raise $45,000 to finish production and distribution of their film.
Recognizing the film’s importance for B.C.’s future, Homestead Foods, a local hydroponics and sustainable farming operation, has agreed to match donations up to $22,500 to fund the final stages and the launch of the documentary.
“The initial interviews and insights are both compelling and eye-opening.” says Homestead Foods owner Shari Matvisheni. “The information shared has the potential to help not just local communities but also Canadian agriculture. Toxic smoke from wildfires can harm crops and our food chain. Addressing this issue benefits all of us.”
With support from the community, the goal is to ensure the documentary reaches as many people as possible, providing solutions in the fight to reduce wildfires in B.C.
To watch the trailer and donate, visit BCisBurning.ca
Media Contact:
Murray Wilson | murray.wilson960@gmail.com | 250-550-0387
To download photos from the film: https://we.tl/t-IqssTkhAxZ