The public is being asked to prepare for localized flooding as water levels in Nicola Lake and river rise due to increased snowmelt and higher than normal rain levels throughout April.

Skilled-trades students in the Nicola-Similkameen and Gold Trail school districts will benefit from a three-year, $15-million investment by the B.C. government to support youth trades programs with the purchase of new trades training equipment.

Building on the economic benefits and jobs created by getting to yes on major projects and provincial investments in infrastructure, Premier Christy Clark and Minister of State For Rural Economic Development Donna Barnett released the Province’s rural economic development strategy, detailing immediate investments and a long-term action plan to support thriving rural communities.

Under the BC Rural Dividend, the Province is providing $60,000 in new grants to the Fraser Nicola region.

The world is changing and B.C. students need to be ready to adapt to the careers of tomorrow. Students in the Nicola-Similkameen School District will be prepared thanks to $22,500 in provincial funding awarded to the district, helping to connect kids with opportunities in skilled trades and tech training. 

The B.C. government is funding 10 extreme weather shelter spaces in Merritt this winter to help people whose health and safety may be threatened by cold, wet weather.

Emergency health services in the Coquihalla corridor will be strengthened thanks to a planned expansion and renovation of the Nicola Valley Hospital and Health Centre’s emergency department.

Members of the Lower Nicola Indian Band will receive direct economic benefits from Teck’s Highland Valley Copper Operations thanks to two new agreements – one with the provincial government and one with the mining firm.

Students at Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) will benefit from $100,000 in funding toward the purchase of new industry-standard trades equipment, including portable welding booths that will enable students to prepare for jobs in the trades.