Released on November 12, 2010
The Saskatchewan Watershed Authority has finished building a new water control structure at the outlet of Makwa Lake. The concrete structure replaces a dilapidated timber structure and is used to regulate water levels at Makwa, Little Jumbo and Big Jumbo lakes.
"This $1.85 million investment in the Makwa Lake Dam supports two of government's commitments," Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Watershed Authority Dustin Duncan said. "First, to provide safe and reliable water supplies to Saskatchewan communities and second, to upgrade and renew public infrastructure, both which sustain economic growth and ensure a high quality of life for our citizens."
The new concrete structure helps Saskatchewan Watershed Authority manage and control the province's water resources, which includes establishing favourable water levels for recreational activities such as fishing and boating. Regulating lake levels also aids in flood control.
The structure has two radial gates and a riparian outlet which allow for improved control of water releases and management of lake levels. As well, a fish passageway was constructed to allow migrating fish access to Makwa Lake, which the previous timber structure did not permit.
Makwa Lake Dam is located approximately 8.3 km northwest of Loon Lake, at the lower end of a chain of six interconnected lakes, including Upper Makwa, Upper and Lower Tullibee, and Big and Little Jumbo lakes. Makwa Provincial Park borders the Jumbo lakes and part of Makwa Lake. Island Lake and Makwa Sahgaiehcan First Nations are nearby.
Makwa Lake Dam is one of 45 dams throughout the province for which Saskatchewan Watershed Authority is responsible. Additional information about Makwa Lake Dam is available at www.swa.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Bill Duncan
Saskatchewan Watershed Authority
Moose Jaw
Phone: 306-694-3990