The flooding in Abbotsford was unprecedented.
Every now and then, the Earth reminds us of who is really in charge. This past year has seen a series of reminders, with windstorms in January and summer wildfires totalling $289 million in insured damage. The flooding across B.C. is just one more grim reminder of the power of nature. Already considered the most costly weather event the province has ever experienced, countless businesses and residents have been affected, including Western Turf Farms, our friends, and family. The effects of the flooding will be felt to one degree or another across the country.
Heavy rains began on November 13th, with torrential rains continuing for the next two weeks. Only a day after the rain began, reports of mudslides, car crashes, and road closures were already coming in at a frightening rate and things escalated from there.
The expense is hard to measure. On one hand, an estimated $450 million in insured damage has been announced, but the full extent of the damage to the economy at this point is unknown, with goods and supplies sitting in containers, unable to reach the consumer. Well over half a million dairy cattle and roughly 12,000 hogs perished due to the event in the Sumas Prairie.
It’s hard to imagine the sheer scale of the flooding and its impact. Entire towns and cities, such as the city of Merritt, were evacuated. Severe damage was inflicted upon infrastructure from railway lines to major roads. The rain and floods caused extensive damage to many businesses and homes alike. Sadly, for many of the residents who were impacted, insurance was not available due to their being located in high-risk flood areas and floodplains. Because of this, government and taxpayers will be the ones bearing the brunt of the expense from the disaster.
Worst of all, lives were lost.
At Western Turf Farms can only be grateful that despite what ourselves and many of our friends, family, staff, and neighbours have suffered regarding the loss of possessions, property damage, and an unimaginable impact on our lives, everyone is safe and well. No price can be put on that.
Still, the process of building back to where we were before the floods will be a daunting one. Before that comes the rebuilding of homes, lives, and safe places. It is remarkable to see the tremendous efforts of volunteers helping those left vulnerable by the disaster. Meals have been prepared, supplies distributed, and funds raised, all to help those who have suddenly found themselves and their families in need.
While our emphasis right now is on the human side of this situation, we are also looking ahead to rebuilding our business. It’s too early to know exactly what needs to be done. Like the other main turf providers, our farm and equipment were underwater for an extended period.
Grass will need to be replanted and equipment will need to be repaired or replaced, but the grass will be replanted and the equipment will be replaced. Like the other businesses and residents of our area, Western Turf Farms will bounce back. The exact road to recovery hasn’t revealed itself just yet, but we will be serving you again as soon as we possibly can.
