LNIB to receive $190k for replanting, bank stabilization following 2021 flooding

The Lower Nicola Indian Band is receiving federal funding to help with its recovery efforts from the November 2021 floods.

The government announced a $190,000 investment Thursday (June 20) to help the Nation revitalize natural green spaces and complete bank stabilization.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with the Lower Nicola Indian Band Reserve on this project,” said Sean Fraser Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities said in a press release. “It will not help the community become more resilient to climate change, but also foster a deeper connection to nature while safeguarding the environment for generations to come.

LNIB Economic Development Project Manager Adam Ova stated that with the funding, the band will plant trees, shrubs, flowers and grass in areas of four Lower Nicola reserves damaged by the flood.

“Lower Nicola Indian Band is pleased to accept the funding and use to revegetate and beautify the reserves through the planting of trees, shrubs, flowers and grass. Given the unfortunate natural events that took place, this opportunity will increase our resiliency to deal with future events and make the reserves a more beautiful place.”

According to the press release  the bank stabilization project “will safeguard the ecosystem and support the breeding habitat of the salmon population in the creek, while also mitigating future flood risks.”

The Lower Nicola Indian Band oversees ten reserves, of which four will receive revegetation upgrades. These include Nicola Mameet IR No.1, Joeyaska IR No. 2, Hamilton IR No.7, and Zoht IR No.4.