Feds, province partner with First Nations for flood mitigation initiative

The governments of Canada and Manitoba, together with Peguis First Nation and Fisher River Cree Nation, have begun Phase 1 of a long-term flood mitigation initiative that will help protect families, homes and critical infrastructure from future flooding.

“Canada is working in full partnership with Peguis First Nation and Fisher River Cree Nation to deliver lasting solutions that protect their communities from seasonal flooding,” said Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty. “These measures reflect our shared commitment to addressing long-standing risks and protecting what matters most. Together, we are taking practical steps to build stronger, more resilient communities and reduce the impact of flooding on families.”

Flood mitigation efforts will reduce long-standing flood risks, protect homes and critical infrastructure and advance reconciliation through collaborative investments, Gull-Masty noted, adding that the project is expected to significantly reduce future emergency response requirements, lower evacuation and recovery costs, and improve protection for priority homes and community infrastructure.

This spring, the Manitoba government approved $15.9 million in emergency flood preparedness and response measures in both communities including temporary flood protection works and road repairs with eligible costs being reimbursed by Indigenous Services Canada through its Emergency Management Assistance Program.

“These investments reflect our commitment to working in partnership with First Nations and the federal government to deliver lasting solutions that protect people, strengthen communities and support a safer future for generations to come,” said Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor.

Phase 1 focuses on protecting the most vulnerable homes, improving access routes and strengthening community infrastructure ahead of future flood seasons including:

• clay dikes to protect the central community area in Peguis First Nation;
• clay dikes for up to approximately 500 vulnerable homes in Peguis First Nation and Fisher River Cree Nation; and
• targeted local road improvements to reduce overtopping and maintain access during flood events.

Under the Emergency Management Assistance Program, Indigenous Services Canada will reimburse eligible costs associated with the Manitoba government’s additional estimated $61.1-million expenditure on this initiative, which was developed in partnership with and approved by Peguis First Nation and Fisher River Cree Nation.

“Fisher River Cree Nation welcomes this collaborative investment in practical, long-term flood protection,” said Chief David Crate, Fisher River Cree Nation. 

Added Chief Stan Bird, Peguis First Nation: “Today marks an important step forward. We commend the governments of Canada and Manitoba for working in partnership with Peguis First Nation to begin Phase 1 of this long-awaited flood mitigation project. This investment recognizes the challenges our people have faced and demonstrates a shared commitment to building a safer, stronger and more resilient future for generations to come.”

Featured image: (Fisher River Cree Nation)