To strengthen defences against the effects of climate change on communities, the Province is funding disaster-risk reduction and climate adaptation projects throughout British Columbia.
“B.C. is on the front lines of climate change, and investing in disaster-risk reduction and climate adaptation has never been more critical,” said Kelly Greene, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “We are taking action to build stronger, safer communities that are better prepared to protect people for generations to come.”
Thirty-nine communities throughout B.C. will receive more than $19 million for 46 projects from the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF) through the Disaster Risk Reduction-Climate Adaptation (DRR-CA) stream. This funding will reduce the impact of future climate disasters by helping communities address current vulnerabilities and by supporting informed planning and decision-making.
“As climate change accelerates, the impacts of natural disasters on our communities are rapidly increasing,” said Trish Mandewo, president and councillor, Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM). “Programs like the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund help support local governments as they prepare the infrastructure needed to help B.C. residents withstand emergencies. The variety of projects approved across the province gives a hint of the magnitude of work ahead of us to continue building resilient communities.”
Projects include:
- Safeguarding the wastewater treatment plant in Merritt and upgrading the Voght Street flood-mitigation pumping station. The pumping station will feature backflow prevention technology to help manage high river flows and protect the community from flooding.
- Improvements to the Toby Creek dike in Invermere to meet unexpected water levels due to climate change. This includes raising dike sections, creating a raised barrier and adding plants for flood protection.
- Replacing the Gold Creek Dam in Cranbrook to double the city’s water storage capacity, prevent sediment buildup and maintain water quality. A fish ladder will be added to restore fish passage.
- Restoring the Willow Creek wetlands and buried watercourses in Xwémalhkwu territory for flood-risk mitigation. The Nation will use natural solutions, such as creating rain gardens, to adapt to climate change and reduce risks. Measures will be taken to protect wildlife and improve local infrastructure, developed through community engagement.
- Purchasing two Tiger Dam trailers for the Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen (RDOS) to better protect people and infrastructure against flooding. The Tiger Dam system, ready to be deployed on short notice, will improve the region’s self-sufficiency and ensure quicker, more effective emergency response.
The CEPF supports local governments and First Nations to better prepare for disasters and reduce risks from natural hazards in a changing climate in several categories. In addition to disaster-risk reduction and climate adaptation, other CEPF categories include:
- volunteer and composite fire departments equipment and training;
- emergency operations centre equipment and training;
- public notification and evacuation-route planning;
- Indigenous cultural safety and cultural-humility training; and
- emergency-support services equipment and training.
The Province has invested $369 million into the CEPF since it was established in 2017. Including this intake, approximately $300 million has been provided to local governments and First Nations through the CEPF for approximately 2,150 projects. This includes approximately $197 million under the DRR-CA stream.
The CEPF is administered by the Union of British Columbia Municipalities on behalf of the Province.
Quotes:
Wayne Price, mayor of Cranbrook –
“This project represents a significant milestone for Cranbrook as it secures our community’s water supply for generations. Ensuring a reliable and resilient water system will empower Cranbrook to continue its growth and development, while preparing for challenges posed by climate change. This is a proactive step to safeguard our future and maintain the essential resources our community relies on.”
Alison Trenholm, lands and governance director, Xwémalhkwu (Homalco Nation) –
“Recognizing the need to protect social, economic, environmental and cultural values, Xwémalhkwu has prioritized the assessment of the risk of flooding in the Willow Creek watershed within which our community sits. Members, staff and leadership are engaged and excited as we future-proof our community, while supporting salmon stewardship and cultural connections. This funding allows us to continue the work we have started and expand it to all our lands within the watershed.”
Sean Vaisler, emergency services manager, Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen –
“This funding reflects the strong collaboration between the RDOS, the Village of Keremeos, the Lower Similkameen Indian Band and the Town of Osoyoos. It will help purchase vital equipment to enhance flood preparedness and response across the region. Strengthening partnerships and investing in regional resilience are critical steps in addressing the impacts of climate change and protecting communities.”
Learn More:
For information about the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund, visit: https://www.ubcm.ca/cepf
For information about disaster and climate-risk reduction, visit ClimateReadyBC: https://www.ClimateReadyBC.ca
To learn about the Climate Preparedness and Adaptation Strategy, visit: http://www.gov.bc.ca/BC-Adapts
A backgrounder follows.