Monday, September 21, 2026
The Government of Nova Scotia announced that it is offering new support for municipalities concerned about stormwater systems being able to handle growth, heavy rains and the potential for flooding.
Applications opened September 17, for the Stormwater Transformation Optimization and Resilience for Municipalities (STORM) program. The one-time program provides $1.9 million to help municipalities improve stormwater planning, understand flood risks and strengthen local resilience.
“Municipalities are facing increasing challenges with flooding and growing communities, and they need strong information and practical tools to plan for the future,” said John A. MacDonald, Minister of Municipal Affairs. “STORM will help municipalities better understand and manage their stormwater systems, reduce flood risks and inform planning to make sound infrastructure decisions that will protect communities for years to come.”
Under the program, the following types of projects may be eligible for support:
- technical data collection such as hydrological modelling, mapping, hazard identification
- planning and feasibility studies
- asset management initiatives, such as compiling a comprehensive inventory of stormwater infrastructure – which could include culverts, storm sewers, detention ponds and outfalls – assessing their condition and identifying maintenance and replacement priorities
- updates to bylaws, design standards and stormwater governance models.
The program is open to all municipalities, towns and villages, and they can apply individually or as partners. Individual applications can receive up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs, and joint applications can receive up to 75 per cent.
The deadline for applications is November 12.
The STORM program builds on ongoing provincial investments to help communities prepare for flooding and climate change. The Province has invested about $10 million in municipal flood hazard mapping, resulting in flood-mapping coverage for about 90 per cent of Nova Scotia, and all municipalities having access to watershed-level and coastal flood maps. Mapping for the remaining areas is expected to be complete next year.
“Municipalities have long identified stormwater management and flood resilience as important areas where additional capacity and resources are needed. This program is a meaningful step towards a collective response to climate-related risks and strengthening long-term infrastructure planning,” said David Mitchell, President, Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities.
Featured image: Repairs to West Bay Road in Richmond County are underway following torrential rain on the weekend. (Province of Nova Scotia)
