Merritt's floodplain plan highlighted in national report

A national report by the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction profiles the City of Merritt's STUWI(x) Naturalization Project, which includes a voluntary buyout program and plans to remove permanent structures from a repeatedly flooded area to restore the river and floodplain.

The Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction has featured the City of Merritt's STUWI(x) Naturalization Project in its report Cities Adapt with Nature-Based Solutions. The project aims to reduce flood risk by restoring the Coldwater River floodplain and returning the river to a more natural state after repeated flooding in 2021. It begins with a voluntary buyout program for properties along the river and includes plans to remove permanent structures and invasive species. A steering committee of municipal representatives and area Indigenous bands will lead a community-driven design process that integrates traditional knowledge and technical expertise. Key details: - The report includes a dedicated chapter on Merritt and highlights nature-based, community-led climate adaptation approaches. - The city has developed a voluntary buyout program and purchased private properties using grant funds. - A steering committee has begun meetings and will develop a naturalized floodplain design over an 18-month period; the project completion date is scheduled for 2027. Summary: The report spotlights Merritt's use of nature-based measures to restore riparian habitat and reduce flood risk. The city has moved forward with voluntary buyouts funded by grants, and the steering committee's 18-month design process is the next planned step toward implementing the naturalization plan.