Dear Editor,
This letter is intended to update the community on the new NDMP (National Disaster Mitigation Program) and the most recent activities of the NPOA.
The new NDMP program has changed significantly. The split for Mitigation Funding is now 50/50 between the federal and provincial governments, alleviating local taxpayers. It is set up as four streams of funding, with each step having to be completed before moving onto the next. First Nations communities are also now eligible for funding.
The NPOA filed two applications in September 2017. The first was a “fourth stream” application for the repair and completion of the Nusatsum Bridge groyne. The second application is for a Lidar photography survey, which would provide valuable data for flood mapping. Lidar is a special method of photography used for surveying and creating high-resolution maps.
Lidar funding is stream one, but the application of the Lidar is in all four streams. An absolute first step even for a the simplest mitigation measure which would be debris and bed load removal.
As recorded in their October 12, 2017 Board Meeting Minutes, the CCRD has submitted a “stream one” application for NDMP. This will also help the NPOA’s “stream four” application if and when the funding happens.
The CCRD has indicated that they believe the NDMP funding announcements should be made by May 2018. We all look forward to hearing the results and the roll out if the application is successful.
A comprehensive Risk Hazard Assessment would be a big win for the whole Valley. Don’t be afraid to let them know they are doing the right thing and you are on board. Be sure to be counted as someone who is moving this project forward.
Sincerely,
Marvin Schmunk, E.D., NPOA