Released on June 12, 2008
Livestock producers dealing with drought conditions in southern Saskatchewan are being offered wildlife land to graze their livestock as a temporary measure.
About 90,000 acres of Fish and Wildlife Development Fund lands will be open to grazing from June 15 to September 15.
"Given the dry conditions in southern Saskatchewan, good pasture land for cattle is in short supply," Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud said. "We are very thankful for this partnership, which will help relieve some of the pressure producers in drought areas are facing.
"Conditions have been established to ensure habitat is protected on any lands that are grazed," Environment Minister Nancy Heppner said. "Although opening wildlife land to grazing will help producers, that access must be balanced with the need to protect the long-term health of the habitat."
The Ministry of Environment purchases wildlife lands through the Fish and Wildlife Development Fund, with monies received from sale of hunting and fishing licences. They are managed for maintaining or improving wildlife habitat.
Producers will be responsible to provide any required temporary fencing or water improvements.
Livestock producers interested in grazing particular Crown lands should contact their local Ministry of Environment office. Eligible lands can be viewed on the Ministry of Environment web site at www.environment.gov.sk.ca. Lands will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
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For more information, contact:
Michele McEachern
Environment
Regina
Phone: 306-787-0412
Jenna Webb
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359