Caldwell First Nation, federal government to upgrade Hillman Marshlands dyke with $15 million
Caldwell First Nation has received more than $15 million from the federal government to help upgrade the southern dyke on the Hillman Marsh.
The reinforcements to the embankment will provide enhanced flood protection for more than 3,440 hectares of First Nation and municipal property, including numerous buildings, businesses and infrastructure, the government said in a news release issued Wednesday morning.
"Protecting and stewarding lands and waters for the benefit of all beings, especially our citizens, is a priority for Caldwell First Nation," said Chief Mary Duckworth. "This dyke repair is one of many essential actions we are taking with our partners during this time when we are all experiencing the impacts of climate change in Southwestern Ontario."
Coun. Douglas Heil of Caldwell First Nation credited the community's relationships with Ontario First Nations Technical Services, the federal government, and the municipality of Leamington with its ability to move forward with the project.
He also credited the Essex Region Conservation Authority (ERCA), which he says "join us in affirming the need to take action now to repair the dyke and ensure the safety of all who live nearby from floods and erosion."
For its part, ERCA is pleased to help with the project, CAO Tim Byrne said in the news release.
"We have collectively struggled for many years with attempting to mitigate the impacts of climate change and flood and erosion hazards on the Polders area and now, have fortunately, with the strong partnership of all of the above, have secured funding to proceed with a protection system that will be sustainable," he said.
The $15 million in funding comes from the federal government's Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund.
"Making adaptation investments not only keeps communities safe but will also have major economy-wide benefits later," the government said in its news release.
"Every dollar that is invested in adapting and preparing for climate-related disasters can return as much as $13 to $15 in benefits."
