Some municipal leaders in the southern Red River Valley are applauding the provincial government's new flood protection program.

The province is offering financial support for municipalities to encourage them to look for projects that will strengthen their flood protection systems and preparations.

"This type of plan should allow us to get equipment related to mitigation in preparation for floods and we think it's a great idea by the province to give us that opportunity," said Montcalm Reeve Paul Gilmore. "Hopefully we'll be able to cash in on some of that."

Under the program, municipalities can be reimbursed for up to 100 percent of approved flood preparedness or resiliency projects and equipment costs. The maximum funding available for each municipality will be based on the total value of all approved proposals, but up to $150,000 may be available for each municipal proposal.

David Carlson, reeve for Emerson-Franklin, appreciates the provincial government stepping up with a program that gets money to the front lines of municipalities that have to fight these floods on the ground. Carlson said they're already getting their list together. "We're looking at diesel pumps, generators, different equipment for our emergency services... things that can help us respond to a potential flood and help us prepare. We're really thrilled with this opportunity."

Municipalities have until February 28 to submit their proposals to a review panel made up of representatives from the Association of Manitoba Municipalities, Winnipeg Metropolitan Region and the province.

The panel will look at several criteria including flood risk, the ability of the proposal to enhance emergency preparedness or resilience for future flood events, and potential benefits to the region.

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