CTV News
British Columbia’s government is providing $23.4 million to 49 First Nations and local governments across the province to help reduce risks of natural disasters caused by climate change.
Bowinn Ma, the first provincial minister of emergency management and climate readiness, revealed Friday that the funding would be delivered through B.C’s Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF).
“From unprecedented wildfire seasons in a devastating heat dome, to catastrophic flooding caused by atmospheric rivers and drought…there can be no doubt that the climate crisis is here and our province is experiencing its impacts,” Ma told media from inside the ministry’s warehouse, surrounded by sandbags and other emergency supplies. …
Richmond will benefit from $2,285,000 – which is the highest amount of funding any local government or First Nation is set to receive.
According to the city’s website, Richmond has one of the most comprehensive flood protection systems in the province – including 585 kilometres of drainage pipes, 165 kilometres of man-made channels that move water through and out of the city, 49 kilometres of dikes, 39 drainage pumps and sensors that provide real-time data on river levels.
“This $2.2 million in funding will ensure our city is even more prepared to respond in an emergency through robust mitigation planning and pump-station upgrades,” Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie said in a statement Friday. …