Sandbags are prepared during the flood fight of 2010 in this file photo. (CHRISD.CA)
Brandon now has its own sandbag-making machine after the province shelled out $35,000 as part of its Westman flood-fighting strategy.
The piece of equipment was unveiled at a news conference Thursday, as the Manitoba government tours the area.
The Assiniboine River is expected to flood its banks this spring and provide high water levels throughout western Manitoba.
“Levels along the Assiniboine River were unusually high going into the winter freeze-up and flood outlooks suggest flooding in many areas along the Assiniboine, even with average
winter weather,” Premier Greg Selinger said.
The new machine brings the total in the province to five. At full production, this type of machine can produce 35,000 bags in an eight-hour shift.
Each machine will require 40 volunteers to be fully effective, the province said.
“We are counting on Manitobans in all areas of the province to continue the great tradition of stepping up to help when nature sends what is expected to be very high water our way,” Selinger added.
The province also announced $781,000 in funding for a $1.85 million permanent dike along the Assiniboine River.
