QU'APPELLE RIVER SYSTEM WATER LEVEL

Released on April 17, 2003

Water levels on several lakes in the Qu'Appelle River system are likely to be as much as one metre (three feet) below normal this year due to a continuing dispute between the federal government and the First Nations of the Qu'Appelle Valley Indian Development Agency (QVIDA).

The federal government, through the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA) owns water control structures along the Qu'Appelle River. Because operation of the structures flood First Nations land, the federal Indian Claims Commission determined in 1998 that the affected First Nations have a legitimate claim for damages. Owners of water control structures are legally obligated to obtain permission from land owners whose property is flooded or otherwise affected by operation of the structures.

Although negotiations have been underway for more than a year, the federal government and the First Nations have been unable to reach a settlement. As a result, First Nations have not granted PFRA access to operate structures affecting First Nations land. If the structures are not operated in the next week or two, the resulting lower water levels will have a negative impact on cottagers and recreational users of Echo, Pasqua, Round and Crooked Lakes.

The government of Saskatchewan is pressing the federal government and the First Nations to come to a satisfactory agreement. Provincial ministers have written to federal government representatives to express their concern.

In the event there is no agreement and the structures are not operated, cottagers and recreational users are advised the operation of boat launches may be affected and that water supply intakes may become unusable. Lower water levels may also create navigational hazards for power boats and interfere with other recreational uses.

The Saskatchewan Watershed Authority is participating in the discussions in an effort to facilitate a settlement between the federal government and the First Nations. Saskatchewan Environment will monitor the effects of lower water levels on water quality and aquatic habitat.

Further information is available from the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority by calling the Provincial Water Inquiry Line (1-866-SASK-H20).

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For More Information, Contact:

Wayne Dybvig Saskatchewan Watershed Authority Moose Jaw Phone: (306) 694-3989 Email: wayne.dybvig@swa.ca Cell: (306) 536-8855