$125 million will be invested over the next five years in Alberta’s new Drought and Flood Protection Program. The Drought and Flood Protection Program will help fund the design and construction of projects that protect critical infrastructure from flooding and drought and help to protect public safety.
"This could include projects to relocate or drought-proof critical infrastructure, improve drainage or water retention ponds, and stabilize riverbanks or construct flood barriers. The program would be application-based and municipalities, improvement districts, special areas, Metis Settlements and First Nations would all be eligible to apply," the province stated.
The Drought and Flood Protection Program builds on the work of the Alberta Community Resilience Program, which ended in 2020. Additional program details, including eligibility requirements, application deadlines and cost-sharing components, will be released when the program opens later this year, though Minister of Environment and Protected Areas, Rebecca Schulz, underlined municipalities can begin applying right away.
Recent actions include standing up the Drought Command Team, creating the new Water Advisory Committee, conducting advanced modelling and launching the largest voluntary water-sharing discussions in provincial history.
"Droughts and floods can devastate public infrastructure and private property, disrupt our economy, damage the environment and put lives at risk. The new Drought and Flood Protection Program would help communities across the province build the practical infrastructure they need to help protect people’s homes and keep businesses going, regardless of the weather," stated Schulz.
According to the province, Disaster Recovery Programs in Alberta have paid out over $1.7 billion to cover uninsured losses associated with flooding since 2010. There have also been over $5 billion in insured losses.
Last week, The City of Airdrie announced it was taking 'proactive steps to enhance its drought preparedness amidst current drought conditions affecting Airdrie and the surrounding region.'
"The City is working in collaboration with neighbouring municipalities to monitor the situation and develop comprehensive readiness plans for the City, local businesses and residents," a release stated.
Airdrie Mayor, Peter Brown underlined that with conditions in Alberta, it's important everyone, including Airdrie's residents play a role in conserving water.
"The City aims to lead by example, reviewing and adjusting our water use, and we encourage local businesses and residents to do the same. Together, we can make a significant impact.”
As part of these efforts, the City is conducting an evaluation of water usage within City facilities and operations and is reviewing the water bylaw to ensure it aligns with regional standards and promotes enhanced water conservation measures.
“The City of Airdrie, along with over ten other municipalities, relies on the Bow and Elbow rivers for its water supply. The mountain snowpack that supplies these rivers, remains below average levels,” said Eugene Lund, Manager, Utility Operations. “It's essential to manage our water consumption carefully to ensure sustainability for all users.”
Given the potential for continued dry weather, the City advises that outdoor watering restrictions and other conservation measures may become necessary in 2024.
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