Over the years, we have personally seen the devastation from floods. In 2001, torrential rain from Hurricane Gabrielle caused extensive flooding in many areas of St. John’s. In 2003, water and ice quickly engulfed one third of the Town of Badger. Also in 2003, heavy rains caused extensive damage in Corner Brook and many west coast municipalities. Other areas of our province have also suffered from localized flooding or the threat of flooding most recently in Steady Brook.

Floods can pose a significant threat to our property, our livelihoods and our lives. Public safety must be our first priority. What we have learned from previous flood damage is that prevention is key. That is why we have developed the Newfoundland and Labrador Provincial Land Use Policy for Flood Risk Areas. By directing new buildings and land uses to areas that are not at a high risk of flooding, we can reduce the need for flood defences and flood damage remediation.

The Department of Municipal Affairs wants your input included in this policy document. Please take the time to look through this Web site and feel free to contact us with your comments.

Jack Byrne
Minister