The Thompson-Nicola Regional District’s search for suitable locations to dispose of mass animal carcasses has gone to the next phase.

Regional directors approved a staff request Thursday to begin geographical studies for potential sites in the event a viral outbreak or disaster kills a large number of livestock. 

The study will look at a variety of potential sites, landfills included, and consider details such as soil stability and closeness to rivers.

Search and Rescue agencies get more money

Regional search and rescue organizations will receive an operational top up thanks to grants from the TNRD.

Directors supported the request, which also includes $9,000 toward two new snowmobiles for Kamloops Search and Rescue.

Kamloops, Wells Gray, Barriere, Logan Lake, and Nicola Valley will see operational grants increased from $7,500 to $10,000. South Cariboo Search and Rescue’s grant jumps from $2,500 to $3,325.