The Government of Alberta looks to create a new program dedicated to mitigate and protecting against floods and droughts. (Photo: Pattison Media)

By David Opinko

Alberta proposes $125 million for new Drought and Flood Protection Program

Mar 4, 2024 | 10:25 AM

The Government of Alberta has announced a new program to mitigate and respond to droughts and floods.

If the 2024 provincial budget passes, it would allocate $125 million to the Drought and Flood Protection Program (DFPP) over the next five years.

In a release from the government, they say the program is designed to help vulnerable communities to develop long-term infrastructure that is needed to improve their drought and flood resilience, and to adapt to severe weather.

The DFPP would help to fund the design and construction of projects including relocating or drought-proofing critical infrastructure, improving drainage or water retention ponds, stabilizing riverbanks, and building flood barriers.

Environment Minister Rebecca Schulz said funding will be application-based and that municipalities, improvement districts, special areas, Metis Settlements and First Nations would all be eligible to apply.

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“Droughts and floods can devastate public infrastructure and private property, disrupt our economy, damage the environment and put lives at risk,” said Schulz. “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.”

Rural Municipalities of Alberta president Paul McLauchlin said rural municipalities manage over 85 pe cent of Alberta’s land mass.

With a hotter and drier summer expected this year, he said he is pleased to see provincial support for initiatives aimed to protect communities.

“RMA is pleased with the introduction of the Drought and Flood Protection Program, and we look forward to seeing the innovative ways that the funding would be put to use by rural municipalities to lessen impacts of drought and flood events,” said McLauchlin.

More details on the DFPP can be found on the Government of Alberta website.

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