MAPLE RIDGE – New Democrat MLAs Bob D’Eith and Lisa Beare say people in Maple Ridge will be better protected during flooding and extreme weather emergencies, thanks to provincial climate adaptation funding for a local project. 

“As the impacts of climate change have become more and more of a reality, our communities have had to become more focused on resilience,” said Bob D’Eith, MLA for Maple Ridge-Mission. “This risk-assessment will help the city of Maple Ridge be better prepared for future emergencies.”  

The City of Maple Ridge is receiving $150,000 for a climate-related multi-hazard risk assessment. 

Across B.C. more than 50 local governments and First Nations are receiving a share of $39 million through the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF). Projects include small-scale structural flood projects and improvements to local flood-mitigation strategies, including more accurate flood mapping. 

“Planning is a key part of preparedness, and essential to reducing the impacts of climate change,” said Lisa Beare, MLA for Maple Ridge-Pitt Meadows. “Every community is different, and this assessment will help us plot the best course to mitigate the unique climate-related hazards in our community.” 

While taking immediate steps to support communities and to keep people safe, the New Democrat government is also launching a new comprehensive B.C. Flood Strategy that will guide flood preparedness and mitigation work by all orders of government from now to 2035. The strategy will support communities to better prepare for flood impacts and strengthen their ability to respond to flood crises. 

For more information: Province strengthens flood defences, protecting people, communities | BC Gov News