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Canada Invests in Climate Change Adaptation Around Ontario’s Great Lakes

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TORONTO, Jan. 20, 2025 /CNW/ – Across the country, the impacts of climate change are becoming more severe and more frequent with extreme events like floods and wildfires and more gradual changes like thawing permafrost and rising sea levels, affecting the safety and quality of life of our communities. Acting now will help protect our communities from the worst economic and environmental impacts of climate change by improving long-term resilience and reducing costs associated with the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. 

Today, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson and Parliamentary Secretary Julie Dabrusin announced $4.1 million in funding for two projects based around Ontario’s Great Lakes under Natural Resources Canada’s Climate-Resilient Coastal Communities (CRCC) Program. 

Through the CRCC Program, the two projects respectively led by Conservation Ontario and Zuzek Inc. will aim to support coastal communities around the Great Lakes by completing climate change risk assessments and developing integrated adaptation plans and actions in collaboration with regional stakeholders and Indigenous communities.

The Government of Canada is investing in climate change adaptation to proactively support community-led resilience and adaptation efforts. It is essential, now more than ever, that we come together to help communities stay strong in the face of current and future change.

Quotes

“The impacts associated with climate change — including intense wildfires, devastating floods, stronger storms and hurricanes, and permafrost thaw in the north — are being felt environmentally and economically in every single region of Canada. That is why this federal government is acting now to help our communities and economy prepare for and protect against the threat of climate change.  Today’s announcements of two projects based around the Great Lakes support vital, community-based work to keep people safe now and into the future.”

The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

“The impacts of climate change are significant and increasing in frequency and severity. Investments in these important initiatives allow Canada to leverage the expertise and guidance of researchers and experts across the country for the benefit of infrastructure planning and decision-making. This is the kind of whole-of-society approach that’s required to better prepare and adapt to the impacts of climate change.”

The Honourable Steven Guilbeault
Minister of Environment and Climate Change Canada

“We are very pleased to announce funding for these nine projects that will support communities and sectors to develop and implement actions to better adapt to a changing climate. Keeping Canadians safe is a priority, and investments like those announced today go a long way to help mitigate the impacts associated with climate change that are devastating livelihoods, environments and the economy.”

Julie Dabrusin
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Member of Parliament for Toronto–Danforth

“Climate change is impacting communities in Ontario and across Canada, and that definitely includes our Great Lakes coastal communities. It’s exciting to see federal recognition of the area as a distinct ecological area in need of specific types of protection from an adaptation and resilience perspective.”

Tony Van Bynen
Member of Parliament for Newmarket–Aurora

“The federal government’s decision to designate 8,400 kilometres of Canadian Great Lakes shorelines as coastal areas underscores the importance of protecting local communities and property. By working together, we advance collaborative solutions to coastal hazards. Promoting a climate-resilient future while reinforcing Ontario’s role as a key economic partner and the significance of this freshwater ecosystem are key priorities for Conservation Ontario.”

Chris White
Chair, Conservation Ontario Board of Directors, Mayor of Guelph/Eramosa, and Warden, Wellington County

“As the Chair of the Pelee Coastal Resilience Committee, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to NRCan and the CRCC Program for the funding to create a Climate Resilience and Adaptation Action Plan for the north shore of Lake Erie, from Amherstburg to Port Alma. It has galvanized our local partners to work collaboratively with landowners and stakeholders to develop and implement climate change adaptation solutions to increase coastal resilience.”

Peter Zuzek
President, Zuzek Inc.

Quick Facts

Every $1 spent on climate change adaptation measures saves up to $15 in terms of the long-term costs involved in mitigating climate change impacts and extreme weather events.Since 2015, the Government of Canada has invested more than $6.5 billion in adaptation efforts, including $2.1 billion since fall 2022 to implement the National Adaptation Strategy (NAS) and other adaptation-related activities.The $41 million CRCC Program supports regional-scale pilot projects on Canada’s three marine coasts — Atlantic, Pacific and North — and in the Great Lakes–St. Lawrence region. The program aims to enhance the climate resilience of coastal communities and businesses and to accelerate adaptation to reduce climate change risks and coordinate innovative actions.In 2021, the Government of Canada launched the Flood Hazard Identification and Mapping Program with an initial investment of $68.3 million.Under the first phase of the FHIMP, NRCan focused on broadening flood mapping in high-risk areas across Canada in collaboration with provinces and territories and cost-shared $52 million in funding for 200 flood mapping projects covering over 800 communities. The flood maps developed through Phase 1 of the FHIMP provide provinces, territories and communities with important tools and information to make informed decisions on flood risk management.Alongside cost-sharing flood mapping projects with provinces and territories, the Government of Canada has invested $3 million in 12 projects dedicated to further climate and flood modelling science in flood mapping.In 2023, Phase 2 of the FHIMP was launched and supported with an additional investment of $164.2 million over five years through the NAS.Phase 2 of the FHIMP aims to continue collaboration with provinces and territories to advance flood mapping and provide up-to-date flood hazard information. With funding until 2028, Phase 2 will help ensure more communities have the tools and information needed to better understand and manage flood risks.In Phase 2 of the FHIMP, the Government of Canada is investing an additional $9 million to further support research — including two new research streams led by Natural Resources Canada:$4.7 million over five years to advance the science in regional modelling projects that will help improve nation-wide flood hazard information coverage; and,$1 million to support Indigenous traditional knowledge projects related to flood mapping.Up-to-date flood maps:support safer land use planning and development and inform zoning decisions, such as locating new developments further away from areas likely to flood; help governments assess the likelihood of flood events and their potential impacts on populations and infrastructure, and decide how to allocate resources; and,strengthen public safety and help communities better prepare for floods by improving emergency response plans like evacuation routes or better informing structural flood mitigation options.The NAS provides a whole-of-society plan focused on protecting Canadian lives and building more-resilient and prosperous communities. Canada released its first NAS on June 27, 2023. Achieving the objectives of the NAS requires whole-of-society action. The Government of Canada is working with provinces, territories, Indigenous partners and the private sector to develop innovative technical, financial and operational solutions that will support adaptation action by communities across the economy.

Related Products

Backgrounder: Canada Invests in Climate Change Adaptation to Keep Communities Safe Around Ontario’s Great LakesCanada Invests in Climate Change Adaptation to Keep Communities Safe in Atlantic Canada Canada Invests in Climate Change Adaptation to Keep Communities Safe in the Prairies and Across Canada Canada Invests in Climate Change Adaptation to Keep Communities Safe in British Columbia and Across CanadaNatural Resources Canada Announces up to $15 Million to Help Communities and Businesses Adapt to a Changing Climate

Associated Links

Climate-Resilient Coastal Communities ProgramConservation OntarioZuzek Inc.Flood Hazard Identification and Mapping ProgramNational Adaptation StrategyGovernment of Canada Adaptation Action PlanBuilding Forward Together: Toward a more resilient Canada – Final report of the Expert Advisory Panel on the Disaster Financial Assistance ArrangementsClimate Change Adaptation Program

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SOURCE Natural Resources Canada

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HelloNation Examines Medicare Advantage & Medigap Coverage Differences, Featuring Financial Advisor Ash Toumayants

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The article reviews provider access, prescription coverage, and out-of-pocket expenses when comparing Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans.

STATE COLLEGE, Pa., July 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — How should residents evaluate whether Medicare Advantage or Medigap coverage better fits their healthcare and financial needs? HelloNation answers this question in an article that explains the key considerations involved in choosing between Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans.

The HelloNation article features insights from Financial Advisor Ash Toumayants of Strong Tower Associates. The article explains that both Medicare Advantage and Medigap supplement Original Medicare but differ significantly in how they handle healthcare providers, prescription coverage, and overall out-of-pocket expenses.

Medicare Advantage plans are typically offered through private insurers and bundles Medicare Part A, Part B, and possibly prescription coverage into a single policy. However, Medicare Advantage plans generally operate with provider networks, meaning healthcare providers must often be selected from within the plan’s approved list.

For residents across Pennsylvania, provider access can play an important role in selecting the right plan. The article explains that individuals should review which healthcare providers are included in a Medicare Advantage network before enrolling. Plan networks may vary by county in Pennsylvania, so residents should confirm that their preferred doctors and specialists are covered.

Medigap plans, also known as Medicare Supplement Insurance, operate differently from Medicare Advantage. The article explains that Medigap works alongside Original Medicare and helps cover certain out-of-pocket expenses such as copays, coinsurance, and deductibles. Although Medigap policies generally involve higher monthly premiums, they can offer greater predictability in medical expenses.

One advantage of Medigap is flexibility in choosing healthcare providers. The article explains that individuals with Medigap coverage can typically visit any doctor or specialist who accepts Medicare nationwide. This broader provider access can be beneficial for retirees who want more freedom in choosing healthcare providers across Pennsylvania or while traveling.

Prescription coverage is another important factor in the decision process. Many Medicare Advantage plans include prescription coverage as part of their bundled benefits. In contrast, Medigap plans do not include prescription coverage, which means individuals who choose Medigap often purchase a separate Medicare Part D plan to manage medication costs.

Budget considerations also influence the decision between Medicare Advantage and Medigap. The article explains that while Medicare Advantage plans may have lower premiums, they often include copays and service limits that affect annual out-of-pocket expenses. Medigap plans generally involve higher premiums but may reduce unexpected out-of-pocket expenses throughout the year.

Travel and lifestyle habits can also affect which plan is more suitable. The article explains that Medicare Advantage plans may have limitations on out-of-network care outside their coverage area. For residents in Pennsylvania who travel frequently or spend time in multiple locations, Medigap coverage may offer greater flexibility when accessing healthcare providers.

Enrollment timing is another important consideration discussed in the article. Medicare Advantage and Medigap plans have different enrollment rules and deadlines tied to the Initial Enrollment Period or the annual Medicare Open Enrollment period. Missing these enrollment opportunities can limit plan choices or result in additional underwriting requirements.

The article concludes that choosing between Medicare Advantage and Medigap in Pennsylvania requires careful evaluation of healthcare providers, prescription coverage, travel habits, budget considerations, and potential out-of-pocket expenses. Comparing plan structures and reviewing coverage details helps individuals make informed decisions that align with their healthcare and financial priorities.

How to Decide Between Medicare Advantage & Medigap features insights from Ash Toumayants, Financial Advisor of State College, PA, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is America’s Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative “edvertising” approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hellonation-examines-medicare-advantage–medigap-coverage-differences-featuring-financial-advisor-ash-toumayants-302829329.html

SOURCE HelloNation

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In HelloNation, Pool & Landscaping Expert Tina Possehn Wolbers Discusses What Pool Opening & Closing Services Include

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The article highlights how seasonal pool service simplifies pool maintenance and protects backyard pools year-round.

LANSING, Mich., July 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — What is included with pool opening and closing services, and how do they support pool ownership? The answer is explored in a HelloNation article, which features insights from Tina Possehn Wolbers of Wolbers-Possehn Pools, Ponds and Landscapes.

The HelloNation article explains that seasonal pool service plays a key role in maintaining a backyard pool throughout the year. By handling the transition between seasons, pool opening service and pool closing service make pool maintenance more manageable and allow homeowners to focus on enjoying their space.

Pool opening service marks the beginning of the swimming season. One of the first steps is removing the pool cover, which has protected the pool during colder months. The pool cover is carefully cleaned and stored, helping extend its lifespan and prepare it for future use. Once removed, the backyard pool begins to take shape as a clean and inviting environment.

Another important part of pool opening service is reconnecting and inspecting pool equipment. Pumps, filters, and circulation systems are checked to ensure they are functioning properly. This step helps restore water flow and sets the foundation for effective pool maintenance throughout the season.

Water level adjustments and water balancing are also essential components of pool opening service. Ensuring proper water levels allows systems to run efficiently, while water balancing helps create a safe and comfortable swimming environment. These steps help homeowners enjoy their backyard pool without unnecessary complications.

The article emphasizes that pool opening service and pool closing service are key components of seasonal pool service, helping simplify pool maintenance and reduce the stress of managing a pool. With a structured approach, homeowners can rely on consistent care that keeps their pool in good condition.

Pool closing service prepares the pool for colder months when it is not in use. This process includes lowering the water level to help prevent potential damage. Proper water management during pool closing service helps protect the structure and equipment over time.

Protecting plumbing lines is another critical part of pool closing service. Water is removed from pipes to prevent freezing and expansion, which could lead to damage. Taking these steps ensures that the system remains intact and ready for the next pool opening service.

Securing the pool cover completes the process. A properly fitted pool cover keeps debris out and helps maintain water quality during the off-season. It also makes the next pool opening service easier by reducing the amount of cleaning required.

Seasonal pool service provides a more predictable and low-stress experience for homeowners. Instead of handling every detail themselves, pool owners can rely on professional processes that keep their backyard pool functioning properly year after year.

Beyond maintenance, a well-cared-for backyard pool becomes a space for relaxation and connection. Whether hosting gatherings or enjoying quiet time, the pool adds value to everyday life. Pool opening service and pool closing service support that experience by keeping the pool ready when it matters most.

The HelloNation article concludes that understanding what is included in seasonal pool service helps homeowners set clear expectations and maintain their pool with confidence. With proper pool maintenance, water balancing, and use of a secure pool cover, owning a backyard pool in Lansing becomes both simple and enjoyable.

What Is Included With Pool Opening & Closing Services in Lansing? features insights from Tina Possehn Wolbers, Pool & Landscaping Expert of Lansing, MI, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is America’s Good News Network, a premier media platform built on the idea that good news travels faster when real people tell real stories. Through its community-focused publications and innovative “edvertising” approach, HelloNation delivers content that informs, inspires, and spotlights the leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/in-hellonation-pool–landscaping-expert-tina-possehn-wolbers-discusses-what-pool-opening–closing-services-include-302829324.html

SOURCE HelloNation

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Verra Mobility Schedules Second Quarter 2026 Earnings Call

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MESA, Ariz., July 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Verra Mobility Corporation (NASDAQ: VRRM), a leading provider of smart mobility technology solutions, announced today that it will report financial results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2026, after market close on August 5, 2026.

Verra Mobility’s Interim Chief Executive Officer, Jon Keyser, and Chief Financial Officer, Craig Conti, will host a conference call and live webcast to discuss financial results for investors and analysts at 5:00 p.m. ET on August 5, 2026.

A live webcast will be available on the Company’s Investor Relations website at ir.verramobility.com. To access this conference call by telephone, register here to receive dial-in numbers and a unique PIN to join the call. A replay of the call will also be made available on the Investor Relations website.

In addition, an archived webcast will be available in the “News & Events” section of Verra Mobility’s Investor Relations website at ir.verramobility.com.

About Verra Mobility

Verra Mobility Corporation (NASDAQ: VRRM) is a leading provider of smart mobility technology solutions that make transportation safer, smarter and more connected. The company sits at the center of the mobility ecosystem, bringing together vehicles, hardware, software, data and people to enable safe, efficient solutions for customers globally. Verra Mobility’s transportation safety systems and parking management solutions protect lives, improve urban and motorway mobility and support healthier communities. The company also solves complex payment, utilization and compliance challenges for fleet owners and rental car companies. Headquartered in Arizona, Verra Mobility principally operates in North America, Europe and Australia. For more information, please visit www.verramobility.com.

Forward Looking Statements

This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements include, but are not limited to, statements about Verra Mobility’s plans, objectives, expectations, beliefs and intentions and other statements including words such as “hope,” “anticipate,” “may,” “believe,” “expect,” “intend,” “will,” “should,” “plan,” “estimate,” “predict,” “continue” and “potential” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. The forward-looking statements herein represent the judgment of Verra Mobility, as of the date of this release, and Verra Mobility disclaims any intent or obligation to update forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those currently anticipated. This press release should be read in conjunction with the information included in Verra Mobility’s other press releases, reports and other filings with the SEC and on the SEC website, www.sec.gov. Understanding the information contained in these filings is important in order to fully understand Verra Mobility’s reported financial results and our business outlook for future periods. Actual results may differ materially from the results anticipated in the forward-looking statements and the assumptions and estimates used as a basis for the forward-looking statements.

Additional Information

We periodically provide information for investors on our corporate website, www.verramobility.com, and our investor relations website, ir.verramobility.com. We intend to use our website as a means of disclosing material non-public information and for complying with disclosure obligations under Regulation FD. Accordingly, investors should monitor our website, in addition to following the Company’s press releases, SEC filings and public conference calls and webcasts.

Media Relations:

Investor Relations:

Valerie Schneider

Mark Zindler

valerie.schneider@verramobility.com

mark.zindler@verramobility.com 

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/verra-mobility-schedules-second-quarter-2026-earnings-call-302834170.html

SOURCE Verra Mobility

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