Dear Editor,
The Richmond Chamber would like to commend the Fraser Basin Council for the launch of its Phase 1, Lower Mainland Flood Management Strategy last week.
This is a very important area of study which has massive implications for not just Richmond, but the entire Lower Fraser River region.
The findings of this study echo the concerns of a report we launched, in partnership with 12 fellow chambers and boards of trade, stretching from Richmond to Hope, in 2014. (Available at richmondchamber.ca)
As highlighted in both reports, the Lower Fraser River has the power to dramatically impact the Lower Mainland, for better or worse.
The Fraser River is a driving force in Canada’s economy. And as a key economic corridor, the river must be properly managed and maintained to help ensure continuing economic prosperity and environmental sustainability.
The economic impact on the provincial and national economy from a significant flood would be enormous.
According to the Fraser Basin Council’s most recent estimates, losses would be in the $20-30 billion dollar range, making it the most damaging natural disaster in our nation’s history.
The reality is that this amount of damage would greatly outstrip the capital and maintenance costs of a preventative, long-term flood management plan.
The Richmond Chamber applauds this proactive initiative of the Fraser Basin Council and its partners, to better understand “the state of flood protection infrastructure, policies and practices across the region” and looks forward to supporting phase 2, “to develop a regional strategy and action plan, including recommendations for a secure, sustainable funding model.”
Rob Akimow
Chair
Richmond Chamber of Commerce
(Rob Akimow is also the Richmond News’ director of advertising)
