GOVERNMENT DELIVERS ON $1 MILLION COMMITMENT TO NEW WATERSHED ASSOCIATION

Today, Minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Water Security Agency Ken Cheveldayoff announced the formation of the Opimihaw Creek Watershed Association, and delivered one of the initial payments as part of a $1 million commitment.

The Opimihaw Creek Watershed Association is made up of representatives from the Rural Municipality of Corman Park and surrounding communities of Warman, Dalmeny, Osler and Martensville.

"The record amount of precipitation over the last few years has created flooding challenges for a number of growing communities in this area," Cheveldayoff said. "Our government is pleased to be able to help these municipalities as they work to ensure development of regional drainage infrastructure to protect peoples' homes and livelihoods."

The Water Security Agency will cover 75 per cent of the costs, up to $1 million, for the Opimihaw Creek Watershed Association to develop a master drainage plan. This includes designing the regional drainage system and constructing water conveyance channels.

"I am confident that by working together through the newly-created watershed association, a regional drainage plan will provide long-term flood protection as our communities deal with the pressures of residential, industrial and commercial development," Corman Park Reeve Judy Harwood said.

The Water Security Agency was created to lead implementation of the 25 Year Saskatchewan Water Security Plan. It will improve water management capacity and service to individuals, businesses and communities across Saskatchewan. This new agency brings together, for the first time, all of the major responsibilities related to water quality and quantity.

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For more information, contact:

Patrick Boyle
Water Security Agency
Moose Jaw
Phone: 306-694-8914
Email: Patrick.Boyle@wsask.ca
Cell: 306-631-6997