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RDEK gets funds for local creek projects
The B.C. government announced March 21 it is spending approximately $39 million for more than 50 local disaster-risk reduction and climate-adaptation projects through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF), including $2.15 million for two projects in the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK).
The RDEK is receiving funds for the Hosmer and Mine Creek assessment and mitigation-options guidance project and Cold Spring Creek Debris Flow Mitigation Project Phase 3.
The Cold Spring Creek Debris Flow Mitigation Project in Fairmont Hot Springs will construct a large barrier and basin to contain debris from a 100- to 300-year flooding event and maximize the debris-storage capacity.
Previous hazard and risk assessments found a high risk for property damage and loss of life from debris flow and floods from Fairmont Creek and Cold Spring Creek.
This project will reduce the risks of debris flood and debris flow on the community and keep people safer, the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness and Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship stated in a media release.
Another nearby approved project is $150,000 going to a project in Creston for a stormwater management master plan.
“The climate crisis is here and we need communities to adapt and strengthen their defences against flooding and other extreme-weather events,” stated Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “We are working with local governments and First Nations to reduce disaster risk and better prepare people and communities for the impacts of climate change.”
“Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme-weather events across our province. As a result, communities in every region are rethinking their current level of preparedness in the context of extreme heat and flooding. The grants provided through this program will support risk mitigation and climate-adaptation efforts in each of the communities funded,” said Trish Mandewo, Union of B.C. Municipalities president.
e-KNOW file photos
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