NORTH SASKATCHEWAN RIVER MEETS WATER QUALITY OBJECTIVES

Water sampling on the North Saskatchewan River shows that the water meets Saskatchewan's surface water quality objectives. There was also no evidence of hydrocarbons.

Saskatchewan Environment and the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority took the samples over the last week after heavy rains in the Edmonton area resulted in combined raw sewage as well as hydrocarbons being released into the river.

"The results confirm that the water quality of the North Saskatchewan River meets all of our water quality objectives following the storm in Edmonton," Environmental Sciences Unit Manager Chuck Bosgoed said. "Daily observation and increased sampling by both agencies was conducted in the last week to provide the public absolute confidence that the river was safe for public use."

"When an incident happens that threatens the water supply, monitoring to understand the threat is an essential step in protecting the public. In this case, monitoring shows that no further action is needed," Watershed Monitoring and Assessment Director, Dr. Terry Hanley said.

The results mean that the water quality of the river is safe for recreational use.

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For More Information, Contact:

Murray Hilderman Environment Regina Phone: (306) 787 6181

Dr. Terry Hanley Saskatchewan Watershed Authority Regina Phone: (306) 787 9982