When heavy floods hit B.C. back in November 2021, Abbotsford and nearby Fraser Valley communities were hit hard. Four years later, residents are still waiting for enough Abbotsford flood support—and local MP Brad Vis is speaking up in Ottawa.
What’s the issue?
- In June 2025, MP Brad Vis questioned Infrastructure Minister Gregor Robertson in Parliament. He wanted to know: out of $643.8 million in new federal funding, how much will Abbotsford and its neighbours actually get in flood support?
Read the full report on Peace Arch News - The Minister confirmed the money is meant to build stronger flood protection. There are 21 active projects in B.C., including work along the Fraser River in Abbotsford.
Why the concern?
Abbotsford still feels vulnerable:
- The 2021 floods caused $675 million in insured losses across B.C., disrupted agriculture, and shut key highways and rail lines.
More on the 2021 B.C. floods from CBC News - Vis pointed out: “Local officials and residents have worked tirelessly,” but delays in funding **permanent flood defences remain unacceptable and highlight the need for Abbotsford flood support.
History of the FPY (Funding Promise Year)
- In June 2024, Abbotsford, Merritt, and Princeton all had 500‑page applications turned down by the federal Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF).
Read: 3 B.C. mayors react to flood fund denials - They received only mundane one‑line rejections—no real reasons given, exacerbating the frustration over inadequate flood support.
- Abbotsford’s mayor Ross Siemens called it a “complete abandonment” by Ottawa, stressing the urgent need for Abbotsford flood support.
What’s At Stake?
- Abbotsford lies on Sumas Prairie, one of Canada’s most fertile farming regions. It produces nearly half of B.C.’s eggs and dairy, valued around $3.8 billion annually, supporting over 16,700 local jobs.
Why Sumas Prairie Matters: City of Abbotsford Blog - Without proper defences—like dikes, pump stations, and flood storage areas—this rich farmland and vital local economy remain under threat.
What’s Next?
- MP Vis is pushing Ottawa for faster, more transparent funding decisions, especially for Abbotsford and the Fraser Valley.
- Local leaders and residents continue to press the federal government, worried about another climate disaster waiting to happen.
- As rebuild efforts continue, Abbotsford is awaiting a clear funding timeline and stronger federal commitment to safeguard its future.
Why This Matters to You
This isn’t just a local story. It’s about how governments respond to climate threats, protect food supply, and support rural communities. In an era of more extreme weather, funding such infrastructure isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Explore More
- MP Vis’s full statement and federal debate summary
- 2024 mayors’ press conference on flood rejection
- Abbotsford’s official blog on DMAF challenges
