SASKATCHEWAN EXPANDS WATER QUALITY MONITORING COMMITTEE

The Government of Saskatchewan is expanding a pilot program begun in 2000 to monitor the potential impact of intensive livestock operations on water quality.

The Spirit Creek Watershed Monitoring Committee, originally formed to monitor water quality in the Spirit Creek Watershed Basin, will expand its activities to include a larger area of the eastern side of the province.

Representatives from the Province of Manitoba will also join the committee.

"The pilot program has been such a tremendous success, we are pleased to announce today that we are extending its efforts to cover off a larger area in the eastern side of the province, as well as across the border into Manitoba," Deputy Premier and Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Minister Clay Serby said.

"Growing our livestock industry is important to the economy and future of this province – and so is protection of our natural resources, including our water supply. The mandate of this committee and the extension of the original program will allow us to achieve both of these objectives."

The monitoring committee was created in August 2000 in response to public concerns regarding the development of intensive livestock operations. The committee's purpose is to allow public input into the design and implementation of a regional monitoring program, to ensure optimal and safe use of manure fertilizers, and to permit a public review of soil and water monitoring data.

"We are committed to balancing rural economic development with safeguards for our water and our environment," Serby said. "This is evidenced not only by this pilot program, but by our involvement in initiatives such as the development of Tri-Provincial Manure Application and Use Guidelines with Alberta and Manitoba."

The Tri-Provincial Application and Use Guidelines are intended to provide a set of recommended practices, supported by science-based information, which will help ensure the sustainable use of manure as a fertilizer – including soil sampling, application methods and management techniques.

The Guidelines are available at Rural Service Centres throughout the province.

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For More Information, Contact:

Patrick Hall SAFRR Regina Phone: (306)787-5669