The government of British Columbia is extending its financial contribution for a Farmers Advocacy Office (FAO) so landowners can continue to receive information and support in northeast B.C. for compensation and mitigation discussions related to proposed oil and gas activities on residential land.

Finance Minister Michael de Jong is inviting Peace River residents to participate in a regional telephone town hall on balancing the 2013-14 provincial budget and supporting affordability for B.C. families.

A $3-million upgrade to Coleman Creek Road near Dawson Creek is underway and, when complete, will improve safety for families and industrial users in the region.

Many waterways in British Columbia's Peace Region are experiencing very low stream flow conditions, so the government is encouraging residents to conserve water and learn more about dealing with current drought conditions.

Two improvement projects on Highway 2 and Highway 97 in the Peace River area will improve safety for families, visitors and commercial traffic.

Work is set to begin on $5.4 million in improvements to Stewart Lake Road, making this heavily travelled road safer for families and more efficient for the oil and gas industry.

South Peace families will benefit from a provincial investment of almost $54 million in highways in the South Peace this year, creating local jobs and improving the condition and safety of roads in the region.

A new web camera on Highway 97 in Dawson Creek is now live on the Province's DriveBC website, providing real-time coverage of highway conditions in the area and helping motorists plan a safer, easier journey.