The Banff Community Foundation has established an After the Flood Stewardship Fund with a lead gift from its unrestricted fund.
In anticipation of the serious work that lies ahead, the Foundation is accepting donations to the fund, a fund that will support groups wishing to assist with habitat restoration and reconstruction activities of the Bow Valley’s public lands damaged by the flood.
“With this fund, visitors and residents will continue enjoying our valuable network of pathways and trails,” said Board Chair Carsten Sorensen. “Conservation groups, outdoor enthusiasts, interpreters and local agencies will soon be able to assess the extent of the damage and establish priorities. This fund will help those groups that have the appropriate permission, experience and skills to organize successful work bees and roll up their sleeves for the significant tasks that lie ahead.”
Trails, pathways, picnic areas and bridges in Banff National Park and Kanananskis Country have been devastated. Near Banff, the Spray River and Cascade River bridges are gone. The Legacy Trail, the popular biking path that links Canmore to Banff, is also closed and has sustained serious damage.
“Government agencies and businesses, donors, volunteers and community partners will need to work together to help with the recovery of our public lands following the flood,” added Sorensen.
“It is tremendously heart-warming to hear the numerous tales of generosity, volunteerism, and neighbours helping neighbours in Canmore, Exshaw and Morley, following the June floods,” said BCF Executive Director Lorraine Widmer-Carson.
“However, groups will soon be looking for support to rebuild trails and restore facilities in the backcountry. This fund supports all Canadians who love to hike, ski, walk and cycle in this valley, as much as we do.”
To donate to “The Bow Valley: After the Flood Stewardship Fund” go to http://bit.ly/bcfdonate.
Business flood fund established
Community Futures Centre West has created a Business Continuity Stabilization Fund to assist businesses in the region affected by the recent flooding.
Affected businesses can access up to $20,000 via a shortened application process developed for this fund. Applications will be accepted immediately and be treated as a high-priority, with the goal of providing assistance as quickly as possible.
“With the worst of the flooding now over, communities and businesses within those communities are starting to return to survey the impacts from the flood waters,” said Jon Close, executive director for Community Futures Alberta.
“Reports from many communities indicate that damage is extensive and resulting cleanup will be both time consuming and expensive. On this basis, I know Community Futures want to help their small business community beyond the level of support we have provided during this recent week of flooding disaster.”
Interested businesses can access the criteria for the Business Continuity Stabilization Fund at www.cfcwest.com.
