Water Security Agency Launches Emergency Flood Damage Reduction Program for 2023

Released on April 4, 2023

The Water Security Agency (WSA) is announcing the launch of the Emergency Flood Damage Reduction Program (EFDRP) for 2023 to help Saskatchewan communities and residents respond to the challenge of possible flooding. WSA is investing up to $500,000 for 2023.

"Although runoff conditions are expected to be near to below normal for most of the province this spring, localized flooding can still occur if conditions are right," Minister Responsible for WSA Jeremy Cockrill said. "This funding ensures communities, rural residents and businesses have the immediate support they need to prepare and respond to a possible or unexpected flood event."   

The EFDRP was first established in 2011 to help implement emergency flood damage protection measures for communities, rural municipalities, businesses, non-profit organizations, individuals with rural yard sites, country residences and cottages to prevent damage from imminent risk of flooding. 

The EFDRP provides financial, engineering and technical support to evaluate the potential flood risk to buildings and to identify options to mitigate the risk when flooding is imminent. Services include client discussions, site visits, hydrological and other technical evaluations, developing mitigation recommendations and cost share funding for permanent flood defenses and temporary relief through pumping.

EFDRP expenditures do reap long-term preventative financial benefits. WSA has reviewed the program and determined each dollar invested in flood damage prevention saves a future $20 to $30 in property damage.

For more information on the EFDRP and details on how to apply, please click here.

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