The Environmental Dispute Resolution Fund (EDRF) provides grants to British Columbians who have organized to protect their communities and their environment – but who need some legal help. Funds from the EDRF allow Indigenous peoples, community groups and individuals to hire lawyers and experts at reduced rates, and work collaboratively with them to resolve disputes in negotiations, mediation, in court or before government tribunals.

Every year the EDRF distributes $100,000 in grants to individuals, community groups, non-profit organizations and First Nations across British Columbia.

If you would like to talk to a lawyer about a BC-focused environmental law problem, and you’re not sure if you are ready to apply to the EDRF, please contact Erica Stahl at estahl@wcel.org or 1-800-330-9235.

Visit Apply to the EDRF for more information about the application process.

The EDRF is a program of the West Coast Environmental Law Association. Funding for the EDRF comes from the Law Foundation of British Columbia.

GSA NEB hearing
About the EDRF

We are the only environmental legal aid program in BC that connects people with private environmental lawyers, empowering communities to use the law to...

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Apply to the EDRF
Apply to the EDRF

We recommend that all interested applicants contact EDRF staff before filling out an application form. If we determine that you meet the criteria and are...

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Mount Polley Prosecution
EDRF Grantees

Over our history, the EDRF has funded a diverse range of environmental protectors – from Indigenous peoples to neighbourhood associations, hunting and...

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Top photo: Shawnigan Residents Association

Team

Erica Stahl
Erica Stahl
Staff Counsel
Barbara Everdene Project Manager Environmental Dispute Resolution Fund
Barbara Everdene
Project Manager - Environmental Dispute Resolution Fund