WSA Budget Invests In Protecting And Building Infrastructure While Facilitating Growth

Released on April 8, 2021

Minister Responsible for the Water Security Agency (WSA) Fred Bradshaw announced a series of targeted investments this week designed to continue WSA's strong commitment toward protecting infrastructure, while laying the groundwork for continued economic growth.

"In this budget, our government has made continued strong investments in protecting our provincial dam system, the core need for safe drinking and wastewater regulation as well as safeguarding against droughts and floods," Bradshaw said.  "The new investments we are announcing are intended to allow WSA to also keep improving its relationships with clients as well as facilitate the tremendous economic possibilities our province has to offer."

WSA's 2021-22 capital budget of $66.5 million is highlighted by an initial $18.9 million investment to facilitate the Westside Irrigation Project, phase one of the 10-year, $4.0 billion Lake Diefenbaker Irrigation Expansion Project, the largest infrastructure initiative in Saskatchewan history.

Other highlights of the capital budget include $6.0 million for construction of a spillway and outlet at Highfield Dam and $7.5 million for ongoing repair and rehabilitation of Gardiner Dam.

A series of targeted investments will keep local communities across Saskatchewan strong as they better protect against and manage future floods and droughts, as well as community infrastructure.  These investments include:

• A total of $1.5 million for the Channel Clearing Program;
• $500,000 for flood damage reduction programming, including reactive and pre-emptive measures to mitigate the damage due to flooding; and
• $250,000 in funding for community flood mapping.

WSA's operational budget of $66 million will continue to oversee the operations of its system of 72 dams and 130 conveyance channels, its network of 283 hydrometric stations monitoring water flows, and the continued safe regulation of more than 600 wastewater and more than 800 waterworks throughout Saskatchewan.

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