FALKLAND ISLANDS GOVERNMENT
PRESS STATEMENT
7 August 2025
Reminder: Public Consultation on the Draft Falkland Islands Wildfire Strategy
The Falkland Islands Government (FIG) would like to remind the public that views are still sought in the consultation on the Draft Falkland Islands Wildfire Strategy.
Background as to why this strategy has been drafted:
Wildfires are a natural aspect of the Falkland Islands landscape, regularly occurring as a result of lightening. However, wildfires can also result from careless or deliberate acts, including where a managed burn escapes control. Regardless of the cause, they can present a significant risk to people, property and infrastructure, livestock, wildlife, habitats, and natural capital due to their impact on ecosystems, agricultural land, inhabited settlements, and military installations. Additionally, they are often difficult to fight and can pose a huge financial burden to the fire services and land managers.
Historically these impacts were managed by separate agencies or with limited cooperation. More recently, wildlife is described as a “whole of society” issue which requires broad participation to tackle the challenges. A coordinated approach is essential to mitigate the impacts of wildfire and to plan the most effective response to wildfire incidents.
The strategy will provide the basis for enhancing environmental and socio-economic resilience to wildfire by understanding and forecasting changing patterns of wildfire danger and planning responses to the environment impacts of fires. It identifies responsibilities, clarifies relationships, and facilitates coordination at government level and between key wildfire stakeholders. This activity is intended to provide a solid foundation for an integrated multi-sector approach to wildfires in the Falkland Islands.
To take part in the consultation, please complete the online survey here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WLP2KS6
The consultation will remain open until Sunday 10 August 2025. All feedback received will be considered before a final version of the strategy is submitted to ExCo for approval.
For more information, or to request a hard copy of the consultation documents, please contact Chief Resilience Officer, Rhiannon Didlick-Smith on email RDidlick-Smith@sec.gov.fk
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