EDMONTON — After a winter marked by heavy snowfall in many parts of Alberta, including the Fort McMurray region where seasonal flooding is a recurring concern along the Clearwater and Athabasca rivers, the provincial government is announcing new funding aimed at reducing future risks.
Alberta says it will invest more than $28 million in projects designed to protect communities from both flooding and drought, as shifting weather patterns continue to challenge infrastructure and water systems across the province.
The funding includes $25 million through the Drought and Flood Protection Program for 12 projects, along with $3.5 million through the Watershed Resiliency and Restoration Program.
Officials say the projects will focus on improving flood mitigation, expanding water storage capacity and strengthening watershed health to help communities better manage extreme conditions.
Examples of funded work include upgrades to dam infrastructure in southern Alberta, the purchase of temporary flood barriers in Drumheller and improvements to drainage systems in several municipalities and First Nations communities.
Additional funding will support wetland restoration and streambank improvements in multiple watershed areas, with the goal of increasing natural resilience to both flooding and drought.
The province says more than $75 million has now been invested in 40 projects through the program to date, part of a broader $125-million commitment over five years.
Officials say the investments are intended to help keep homes, businesses and critical infrastructure safe while ensuring reliable access to water as Alberta communities continue to grow.
Comments