Federal government invests in coastal protection project in Lax Kw’alaams

Lax Kw’alaams, British Columbia, February 15, 2024 — Measures are being put in place to stabilize the shoreline in Lax Kw’alaams after an investment of more than $5 million from the federal government. Announced by Minister Jonathan Wilkinson, this project will protect the community’s critical infrastructure and preserve the precious habitats of important fish species, such as surf smelt and herring.

Located on the northwest coast, and accessible only by ferry or water taxi, Lax Kw’alaams is experiencing a consistently high rate of erosion along its shoreline, caused by a rise in sea level, storm surges, and strong winds. This has resulted in the loss of a considerable amount of land, putting the community’s power, roads, water and sanitary sewer assets at risk. Funding will go towards the construction of new rock revetments along the shoreline to create a barrier to absorb and dissipate the wave energy of the water, which will in turn protect Lax Kw’alaams against further erosion.

Making adaptation investments now will have major economy-wide benefits later. Every dollar that is invested in adapting and preparing for climate-related disasters can return as much as $13 to $15 in benefits.