Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): The Alberta government is allocating another $25 million to strengthen communities against the growing risks of droughts and floods, with a focus on protecting residents, homes, businesses and critical infrastructure.
Announced on November 3, the funding will be distributed this spring through the province’s five-year, $125-million Drought and Flood Protection Program. Municipalities, Indigenous communities and other eligible organizations can now submit applications for financial support to develop infrastructure and improve their preparedness for extreme weather conditions.
The provincial government said investing in preventive measures will help communities manage the impact of floods and prolonged dry conditions while reducing the financial burden associated with natural disasters. The initiative is also aimed at ensuring the safety of residents and protecting essential services and local economies.
Environment and Protected Areas Minister Grant Hunter said droughts and floods pose serious challenges to public safety, infrastructure and private property, while also affecting economic activity. He noted that the additional investment would help communities build the infrastructure required to better withstand such emergencies.
The programme has already supported several projects across Alberta through its previous three funding rounds. These initiatives include improvements to drinking-water infrastructure in Fort McKay, efforts to secure Sylvan Lake’s water supply, protection of essential infrastructure on Siksika Nation and upgrades aimed at safeguarding Medicine Hat’s wastewater treatment facility.
Other funded projects include improvements to the Therriault Dam in the Municipal District of Pincher Creek and the strengthening of rural road crossings in the Municipal District of Taber.
Rural Municipalities of Alberta President Kara Westerlund highlighted the importance of the initiative, noting that rural municipalities manage approximately 85 per cent of the province’s land and play a frontline role in reducing flood and drought risks.
She said the programme has demonstrated its value in improving community resilience and protecting rural residents, businesses and industries.
The government has also introduced changes to the funding framework following feedback from earlier application rounds. Under the revised eligibility criteria, corporations can now apply for support if their proposed projects deliver wider community benefits, protect critical infrastructure and contribute to public safety.
For corporation-led projects, the funding arrangement will follow a 50:50 cost-sharing model, with the government’s contribution capped at 30 per cent.
Through the expanded programme and additional investment, Alberta aims to encourage more infrastructure projects and strengthen its long-term preparedness for extreme weather events across the province.
