CHANNEL CLEARING ASSISTANCE PROGRAM APPLICATIONS NOW AVAILABLE

The Saskatchewan Watershed Authority is accepting applications to provide financial assistance for removing obstacles from natural water courses.

Premier Lorne Calvert recently announced funding for several key initiatives designed to help producers and municipalities who have been affected by excessive moisture and flooding in 2006, including the reinstatement of the Channel Clearing Assistance Program.

"The Channel Clearing Assistance Program has been fully re-established and the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority is pleased to be able to provide grants to rural municipalities for the removal of brush, beaver dams and other debris from natural water channels," Minister Responsible for the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority John Nilson said. "These obstructions can impede water flow and cause flooding of farm lands and municipal infrastructure, such as roads."

Municipalities can apply now to the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority for funding to cover a portion of their channel clearing costs. The program covers fifty percent of the costs of channel clearing projects that meet the eligibility criteria. The deadline for applications is September 15th, 2006.

A detailed program profile is available on the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority website at www.swa.ca under Publications/Water Management/Program Profiles. Application information and forms can also be obtained at the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority's Head Office in Moose Jaw, or at Regional Offices in Nipawin, North Battleford, Yorkton, Swift Current or Weyburn.

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For More Information, Contact:

Don Dill Saskatchewan Watershed Authority North Battleford Phone: (306) 446-7456