Located along the Red Deer River in Alberta’s Badlands, the Town of Drumheller has experienced several major floods over the past century, including eight significant flood events that have threatened homes, infrastructure, and the surrounding landscape. As flood risk increased, the community recognized the need to move beyond emergency response toward a long-term solution that could reduce risk and strengthen resilience.
The Drumheller Flood Mitigation Program was launched in 2019 to deliver a comprehensive approach to flood protection and climate adaptation. The initiative included the construction of 11 flood protection berms, strategic floodway property buyouts, and improved emergency preparedness tools. Environmental restoration was also integrated into the project, including riparian rehabilitation and the planting of approximately 12,000 trees and shrubs along the river corridor.
Today, the program protects nearly 700 homes, community buildings, and essential infrastructure along a 30-kilometre stretch of the Red Deer River. By combining engineered flood protection with environmental stewardship and strong community engagement, the Drumheller Flood Mitigation Program is helping safeguard both the landscape and the community for generations to come.
