Manitoba plans to introduce legislation that will streamline compensation for economic loss from artificial flooding caused by the Shellmouth Dam and other water control projects.
The proposed law would establish clear guidelines for the operation of Shellmouth Dam – which controls water levels on Lake of the Prairies – and other designated water control structures.
It would also allow the government to establish advisory committees to provide guidance on the operation of these structures.
“Most importantly, the act would establish a compensation program for Manitobans who suffer property damages or economic loss due to artificial flooding resulting from the operation of these designated dams and structures,” water stewardship minister Christine Melnick said in a news release.
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Melnick said it has been difficult to achieve consensus among nearby landowners on how to operate Shellmouth Dam near Russell, Man., because of its complexity and wide-reaching consequences.
Stan Cochrane, chair of the Assiniboine Valley Producers Association (AVPA), said the most important aspect of the new legislation is that it would make it easier for flood victims to tap compensation.
It will also upgrade the existing liaison committee to advisory status. The AVPA has two members on the committee.
“With this legislation, once it’s passed, we’ll be able to work out a compensation package if they flood us out,” he said, adding provincial officials will still control the floodgates.
“They do sit down with us and talk about whether they are going to open it up or close it,” Cochrane said.
“We put our input in, but at the end of the day, they are the ones making the decision.”
Shellmouth Dam has resulted in occasional artificial flooding over the last 37 years. An estimated $2.2 million in compensation was paid to property owners for such flooding in 2005 and 2006.
The province has also announced it is extending its flood assistance program for Assiniboine River Valley producers who lost money because of excessive flooding in 2007.
Last year, the province paid $1.27 million in assistance to 102 producers who claimed losses in 2005 and to 101 producers who claimed losses in 2006.
The Assiniboine River Flood Compensation Steering Committee, comprising representatives from Manitoba Water Stewardship, Manitoba Agriculture, Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC), AVPA and Manitoba Emergency Measures Organization, has established guidelines for assistance eligibility.
The MASC appeal tribunal hears appeals.
