By Times Chronicle Staff

Oliver and Osoyoos will be better protected during flooding and extreme weather emergencies, says Roly Russell, MLA for Boundary-Similkameen following the announcement of provincial climate adaptation funding for local projects.

Osoyoos announced its funding from the province last Friday (March 20) which sees a grant for $150,000 to develop a plan to reduce flood damage and to help deal with damage costs.

Oliver also received provincial funding amounting to $45,000 for improving infrastructure along Wolfcub Creek which is prone to flooding.

“We know the impact that floods and other extreme weather events have in our region, and we know just how devastating they can be for communities,” Russell said.

“Prevention and preparedness makes a world of difference for communities working to reduce the risk of disasters and can save a lot of money and stress; but, it’s tough for communities to do that work on their own.

“I’m pleased that BC can partner with communities and that our government is putting more than $1.25-million in provincial funding for a number of projects that will help to improve infrastructure and mitigate future risks of disaster.”

The following projects also received funding:

  • Regional District of Okanagan-Similkameen, $150,000 for hazards, risk and vulnerability assessment
  • Regional District of Kootenay-Boundary, $814,992 for Boundary region rural riparian restoration, bank stabilization and ecosystem services
  • Penticton, $115,000 for hazard, risk and vulnerability assessment

Across BC more than 50 local governments and First Nations are receiving a share of $39 million through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF). Projects include small-scale structural flood projects and improvements to local flood-mitigation strategies, including more accurate flood mapping.

The New Democrat government is also launching a new comprehensive BC Flood Strategy that will guide flood preparedness and mitigation work by all orders of government from now to 2035. The strategy will support communities to better prepare for flood impacts and strengthen their ability to respond to flood crises.