The Saskatchewan government continues to prepare for the anticipated spring runoff with an announcement of a flood preparedness program to assist communities in the province.
Residents faced with threats of flooding will be assisted with the 2013 Emergency Flood Damage Reduction Program.The program was announced by Ken Cheveldayoff, minister responsible for the Sask. Water Security Agency.
According to a government news release, the program will provide engineering and technical assistance to municipalities, while sharing costs of permanent and temporary flood prevention works.
The program covers 100 per cent of costs for engineering assistance and purchase of sandbags by local governments, and also reimburses individuals for 85 per cent and communities and businesses for 75 per cent of the cost of approved, permanent flood protection works built to provide protection from imminent flooding in 2013. Projects will include such things as berms, culverts and lift station work, the government says.
As well, 50 per cent of costs for temporary flood protection measures such as purchase of sand for sandbags and pumping will be covered. Projects must be approved by the WSA to qualify for funding. Requests for assistance under the program should go to the nearest WSA regional office or by calling toll free at 1-866-727-5420.
In a statement, Cheveldayoff said the government remains committed "to supporting its citizens and communities faced with potential flooding."
"Since 2011, the government of Saskatchewan has provided $25 million to assist in the construction of 580 permanent works across the province," said Cheveldayoff."Investing in community-driven mitigation efforts creates protection from flooding not only this spring but in years to come."
