Hartley Bay — The federal government is investing $16 million to support the village of Hartley Bay’s, home of the Gitga’at First Nation, water infrastructure improvements. Announced by Minister Sean Fraser, this project will significantly improve the water supply system for the community by retaining water at the outlet of Upper Gabion Lake, which can then be released during the increasingly dry summer months.
It will also build a dam, controls, and an access road to the project site. These assets will help protect the community, their livelihood, and the overall fish supply, including Coho salmon, in the Gabion River. Once complete, this new infrastructure will help the residents of Hartley Bay be prepared for environmental disasters as they will have stored water available to combat wildland fires and mitigate the risks of drought. Additionally, the upgrades will help ensure that the community continues to have a safe water supply, including a healthy fishing habitat, which will protect their culture and heritage and support their economic growth.
Furthermore, 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.
“Quality disaster mitigation and adaptation infrastructure keeps our communities secure. Improving the water system in Hartley Bay will increase storage and supply, providing the Gitga’at First Nation with the tools they need to face environmental disasters. The federal government will keep investing in projects like this one that build stronger communities, protect our ecosystems, and help keep Canadians safe for years to come.” – Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities