Three ways Canadian communities are reducing flood risks

(NC) Communities in Canada are facing increased flood risks, with 1.5 million homes highly exposed. There are large-scale programs available across the country providing flood protection measures for communities at risk, such as Intact’s Municipal Climate Resiliency Grants. This program is helping build the resilience of communities and homes through a variety of preventative actions.

Wetlands can reduce flood risk by absorbing large quantities of water, but they are not typically found in cities. In Vancouver, B.C., Environmental Youth Alliance and Strathcona Community Gardens created a wetland on downtown’s east side, an area historically prone to flooding. Made up of natural elements like ponds and marshes, the wetland reduces the community’s flood risk by catching and absorbing rainfall and runoff from surrounding surfaces.

Knowing the risks is the first step to protecting homes and communities. In New Brunswick, the City of Fredericton launched a Neighbourhood Flood Risk Tool to provide easy access to online flood prevention guidance. Residents can input their addresses to see if they are at risk and learn tips to reduce the risk of flooding around their properties. The portal launched in the summer of 2023 and was viewed 27,000 times in its first year.

Rebate programs are a powerful motivation for homeowners to make upgrades that might otherwise be put off. In PEI, the City of Charlottetown offered rebates covering 75 per cent of eligible material and labour costs, up to a maximum of $1,000. More than 90 properties completed upgrades, including installing sump pumps, backup batteries, backwater valves, and water monitors and alarms, to better prepare them for extreme weather events.

Communities can learn more about the grant program and how to apply at intactfc.com/mcrg.