FOUR GRANTS APPROVED FOR FLOOD PROTECTION IN NORTHEAST SASKATCHEWAN

Four communities in northeast Saskatchewan were recently approved for assistance under the Emergency Flood Damage Reduction Program.

The Town of Watson, Rural Municipality of St. Peter, Village of Quill Lake and Conservation Area Authority of Willow Creek, will share funding from the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority totalling nearly $72,000. The grants for the communities will cover a variety of flood protection activities including clearing channels and culverts, snow removal, sandbagging and pumping.

"I am pleased that government is able to assist these communities with their flood protection plan," Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Watershed Authority Dustin Duncan said. "By working proactively we will reduce the risk of flood damage this spring."

"These proactive measures are good news for the families, businesses and communities in the Melfort area," Melfort MLA Rod Gantefoer said. "Many people will be relieved to know that efforts are underway to help protect their homes and other property in the area from spring flooding."

The $22 million Emergency Flood Damage Reduction Program provides technical and financial assistance to communities and individuals to protect homes and permanent structures against flood damage in 2011. Due to a wet fall and above-average snow accumulation, the risk of flooding during the spring runoff is higher than normal. Saskatchewan Watershed Authority provides 50 per cent of the estimated costs for temporary works, 75 per cent for permanent works and 85 per cent for farm yards.

Further details about the Emergency Flood Damage Reduction Program and the spring runoff forecast are available at Saskatchewan Watershed Authority regional offices or on the province's flood website at www.saskflood.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Dwayne Rowlett
Saskatchewan Watershed Authority
Phone: 306-862-1750