INFRASTRUCTURE PROJECT FUNDS MCPHEE LAKE SEWAGE LAGOON

Released on October 8, 2004

Construction is underway on a new sewage lagoon with support from the Canada-Saskatchewan Infrastructure Program (CSIP). The new lagoon means improved sewage treatment for the local recreation destinations.

"A sustainable, healthy rural economy is vital to western Canadians," said the Honourable Stephen Owen, Minister of Western Economic Diversification and Minister of State (Sport). "Investments in key infrastructure projects such as the new lagoon at McPhee Lake improve our standard of living and help our communities grow."

"This new sewage lagoon will be an environmentally safe sewage disposal system that will provide opportunities for future growth," Saskatchewan Rivers MLA Lon Borgerson said on behalf of Government Relations Minister Len Taylor. "This project is another step toward ensuring the sustainability of Saskatchewan communities and we are proud to be a part of the team contributing to McPhee Lake's success."

"Thanks to the Canada–Saskatchewan Infrastructure Program, the McPhee and Anglin Lake resort communities and surrounding area will have one of the most environmentally-sound sewage lagoons possible," Reeve Jim Laing said at the sod turning ceremony today. "Future growth of the community will be enhanced with the support for this expansion."

Funding for the McPhee Lake Sewage Lagoon was announced in April 2004. The governments of Canada and Saskatchewan each committed $63,006 to the $189,020 project.

Work on the lagoon is expected to be finished by March 31st, 2005. It will replace two sewage pits that do not comply with applicable provincial acts and regulations.

This is the fourth year of the five-year program that will see an investment of more than $170 million in federal, provincial and municipal funds in Saskatchewan's municipalities.

The first priority for infrastructure investment through the CSIP is green municipal projects such as water and wastewater developments and upgrades, solid waste management and recycling, and improving the energy efficiency of buildings owned by municipal governments. Before receiving final approval, community projects must undergo a review process under the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act.

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For More Information, Contact:

Maureen Boyle Government Relations Regina Phone: (306)787-5959

Joanne Mysak West. Economic Diversification Canada Saskatoon Phone: (306)975-5942