$2B SET ASIDE FOR NATURAL DISASTER PROTECTION

The federal government has set up a $2-billion fund to help communities protect themselves from natural disasters. Federal Infrastructure Minister Amarjeet Sohi made the announcement on the Calgary Stampede grounds Thursday, which were submerged during heavy flooding in southern Alberta in 2013. Sohi, pictured, said the 10-year program will cover projects that help communities withstand natural disasters including floods, wildfires, seismic events and droughts. “Floods, wildfires and winter storms are getting worse and more frequent,” he said. The money is for large-scale infrastructure projects with a minimum price tag of $20 million such as diversion channels, wetland restorations, wildfire barriers and levees.