Construction has begun on a $61.1-million flood mitigation project aimed at protecting vulnerable homes and critical infrastructure in Peguis First Nation and Fisher River Cree Nation in Manitoba’s Interlake region.
The first phase of the long-awaited initiative was announced on October 21, 2026, through a partnership involving the federal government, the Manitoba government and the two First Nations. The project is designed to reduce the risk of recurring floods that have repeatedly threatened homes, disrupted communities and forced residents to evacuate.
The initial phase will involve constructing clay dikes around the central community area of Peguis First Nation, alongside additional protective dikes for up to approximately 500 vulnerable homes across Peguis and Fisher River Cree Nation.
The work will also include targeted improvements to local roads to reduce flooding over roadways and help maintain access to the communities during periods of high water. These measures are intended to protect residents while improving the ability of emergency services and other essential workers to reach affected areas.
The Manitoba government estimates the additional expenditure for the initiative at $61.1 million. Indigenous Services Canada will reimburse eligible costs through its Emergency Management Assistance Program.
Federal Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to providing lasting flood protection and reducing the impact of seasonal flooding on families.
Manitoba Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Lisa Naylor also highlighted the importance of strengthening community resilience through infrastructure improvements.
Leaders from both First Nations welcomed the start of construction, describing it as an important step towards addressing longstanding flood risks.
Peguis First Nation Chief Stan Bird said residents have endured repeated flooding, displacement and uncertainty for generations. He welcomed the collaboration between the communities and governments, noting that the project would help move them away from repeated emergency responses towards more sustainable flood protection.
Fisher River Cree Nation Chief David Crate also welcomed the investment, saying stronger protection for homes, access routes and essential infrastructure would improve residents’ safety and strengthen the community’s resilience.
Both communities have experienced serious flooding over the years. In 2022, flooding in Peguis forced more than 2,000 residents from their homes, while hundreds of houses sustained damage. The community has continued to face significant flood threats, requiring extensive emergency preparations, including sandbagging and temporary protective barriers.
The federal government’s project documentation also identifies permanent community dikes, subdivision-level protection, individual home protection, road improvements and drainage work as important elements of the broader flood protection effort.
The start of Phase 1 represents a major development for the two First Nations, where recurring flooding has affected housing, infrastructure and residents’ sense of security.
While construction is now underway, community leaders and the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs have emphasized the need for sustained investment and continued cooperation to ensure the protection measures deliver lasting benefits.
The project is expected to strengthen flood resilience in the Interlake region and help families in Peguis and Fisher River face future flood seasons with greater security.
Swifteradio.com
