Released on July 9, 2020
The Government of Saskatchewan is reminding producers they can begin to salvage hay in provincial highway ditches.
“The annual hay salvage and mowing program provides many benefits by taking into account the needs of area land owners, producers and travellers,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister Greg Ottenbreit said. “The benefits include improved sightlines for drivers, better snow storage during winter months, a neat appearance and better weed control.”
Hay can be salvaged any time during the spring or summer months. Beginning today, anyone can cut and bale hay in provincial highway ditches without permission from the property-owner, as long as no operations have already begun.
It is recommended that participants contact their local Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure office to provide contact information and limits on where they are salvaging hay to avoid disputes.
All hay bales must be removed by August 8, otherwise they may be removed and disposed. After that, bales must be removed immediately. The ministry may also remove and dispose of hay bales in locations deemed unsafe for drivers.
Beginning next week, regular ditch mowing will occur along all four-lane highways through the fall. A four-metre-wide strip will be mowed adjacent to the other highways with additional mowing as required to ensure visibility and weed control.
A weekly construction update provides Saskatchewan residents with the latest details on projects underway to help plan safe and efficient travel throughout the summer and fall. Additional travel information about emergency road closures, the status of ferries, barges and other road activities can also be found on the Highway Hotline at www.saskatchewan.ca/Highwayhotline. Information and concerns about a provincial highway can be made by calling 1-844-SK-HIWAY.
The Government of Saskatchewan has invested more than $9.8 billion in highways infrastructure since 2008, improving more than 15,800 km of Saskatchewan highways.
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For more information, contact:
Steve Shaheen
Highways and Infrastructure
Regina
Phone: 306-933-5641
Email: steve.shaheen@gov.sk.ca