On February 3, 2023, BC’s Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness announced that forty-nine First Nations and local governments throughout BC will receive provincial funding to help reduce risks from future disasters related to natural hazards and climate change.
A total of $23.4 million from the Community Emergency Preparedness Fund (CEPF) will support communities to better prepare for, mitigate and respond to climate-related emergencies, such as floods and extreme temperatures.
“͞The climate crisis will continue to increase the risk of natural disasters in British Columbia over the years ahead. Local governments and First Nations are important partners in ensuring that communities are prepared for what will come, and we’re taking action to support them in this critical work,” said Bowinn Ma, Minister of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness. “͞The projects enabled by this funding will make a big difference for First Nations and communities throughout B.C. in their efforts to keep lives and livelihoods safe from potential disasters.”
The Disaster Risk Reduction – Climate Adaptation stream under the CEPF supports the Province’s Climate Preparedness and Adaptation Strategy. The CEPF is administered through the Union of British Columbia Municipalities (UBCM) and funds projects that strengthen the resilience of First Nations and local governments in responding to and preparing for natural disasters and climate change.
Among the projects announced are two Green Shores Demonstration Projects for shoreline rehabilitation: Colquitz Park in the District of Saanich and Esquimalt Gorge Park in the Township of Esquimalt. The Green Shores framework offers tools, training, and best practices for cooperating with natural shoreline processes and ecosystems to enhance water quality, habitat, and biodiversity, bringing climate resilience and environmental, cultural, social, recreational, and economic value to each community. Stewardship Centre for BC looks forward to working with its partners to provide outreach and education about nature-based solutions for shoreline rehabilitation and management.
