BALANCED SOLUTION FOR FLOOD ISSUES AT WALDSEA, DEADMOOSE AND HOUGHTON LAKES

In response to imminent flooding at Waldsea Lake, the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority will provide financial assistance to residents and cottagers in order for them to move to a different property, and will provide compensation for damages to producers affected by flooding.

"We anticipate a significant spring runoff after several years of higher than normal precipitation, and it is no longer feasible to continue to prevent overflow into Waldsea Lake," Environment Minister Dustin Duncan said. "It is unfortunate to see the end of a valued resort community, but this offers families a chance to move to an area they can enjoy without the threat of being flooded."

Record precipitation in 2010 has raised water levels to the point that the cottages at Waldsea Lake will be at high risk of flooding again this spring and, as the lake is a closed basin and has no outlet, this risk will remain for several years. Deadmoose Lake is now high enough that it will overflow into Waldsea Lake.

In addition, the Federal Order by Environment Canada directing the Watershed Authority to block outflow from Houghton Lake through Grid 777, coupled with record precipitation, caused extensive flooding around Houghton and Deadmoose lakes. The Watershed Authority is challenging this order but complying with it, and compensating landowners for the resulting flood damages.

The Saskatchewan Watershed Authority leads the management of the province's source water to ensure safe, reliable water supplies.

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For more information, contact:

Dale Hjertaas
Saskatchewan Watershed Authority
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2892