Image: Mike Vanden Bosch / Pattison Media / Chilliwack MLAs Kelli Paddon (left) and Dan Coulter (centre) are pictured with B.C. Premier David Eby. The province has earmarked funds that will help several communities tackle vulnerabilities and minimize the risk of future disasters tied to climate change.

By Don Mitchell

climate emergencies

$5M for Harrison Lake dike upgrade included in B.C. funding seeking to reduce climate disasters

Sep 18, 2024 | 1:08 PM

HARRISON HOT SPRINGS – A $5 million investment in the Harrison Lake dike upgrade is one of several initiatives that will receive funding from a provincial program addressing climate-related emergencies.

The cash will come from B.C.’s Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF), which seeks to minimize future disasters through the multiple projects linked to disaster-risk reduction and climate adaptation.

Located along the village’s waterfront, the dike provides some flood protection for residents but has been targeted for a refit after a 2021 assessment by consultants said the 76-year-old structure does not meet current protection standards.

The upgrades will raise the dike’s crest elevation and improve the wastewater treatment plant road to better withstand a large flood while allowing for access during emergency situations.

“As climate change increases risks for our communities, we have continued to increase support to help make sure people are protected and prepared for events like floods, landslides, and evacuations,” said Kelli Paddon, MLA for Chilliwack-Kent.

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“Five million dollars for Harrison Lake flood prevention and dike repairs is great news for a community that has been so resilient over the years.”

The funding comes almost a year after the village successfully secured nearly $6 million under the federal government’s Canada Community-Building Fund, which delivers roughly $2.4 billion every year to over 3,600 communities.

On Wednesday, the province also earmarked CEPF funding for Chilliwack Creek and an assessment of its existing drainage pump station and floodbox, constructed approximately 76 years ago.

Sixty-five communities will share $56 million in new funding from the CEPF, which is expected to support 78 climate-related projects.

“We can never be too prepared, especially in rural and Indigenous communities, who may not have as quick of access to emergency services,” said Dan Coulter, MLA for Chilliwack.

“From heat mapping at Seabird Island Band to pump station upgrades here in Chilliwack, all of these projects make a difference.”

Administered by the Union of B.C. Municipalities (UBCM), the CEPF has been around since 2017, with close to $279 million provided to local governments and First Nations for approximately 2,100 projects, according to the province.

It includes $176 million to support disaster mitigation and climate adaptation projects.