Program Overview
Port Metro Vancouver launched the Local Channel Dredging Contribution Program in November 2009, as part of the implementation of the 2008 Dredging Policy, the Port’s long-term dredging strategy for the Fraser River. Port Metro Vancouver is the first port authority in Canada to provide funding contributions for local communities with waterways falling outside of the main domestic and international shipping channels.
The Port’s Dredging Policy addresses the maintenance dredging of deep sea and domestic shipping channels in the Fraser River that support international and domestic trade, and the management of dredge materials. A key component of the policy is the 10-year Local Channel Program that provides financial support for riverfront communities to undertake their own dredging activities beyond deep sea and domestic shipping channels.
The Local Channel Program provides up to $7 million over 10 years for long-term, community-based dredging plans. River User Associations within eligible communities (see Local Channel Map) may apply for funding contributions up to a maximum of $500,000 per Local Channel over a 10-year period.
In order to take advantage of the funding available through the Local Channel Program, we encourage communities to organize themselves early to determine their needs and develop an application for funding. We will continue to provide guidance to communities mobilizing toward sustainable dredging plans for their areas and encourage River User Associations who have already formed and need funding design, engineering, application development and sampling/testing to apply for advance funding using the form below.
For more information about the Program, or for assistance with Local Channel Applications, please contact Cindy McCarthy, Communications Advisor, at 604-340-9645 or by email.
Dredging Toolkit
Environmental tools:
Social tools:
Financial tools: