WATERSHED PLANNING UNDERWAY IN OLD WIVES WATERSHED

The Saskatchewan Watershed Authority and the Old Wives Watershed Association (OWWA) have signed a partnership agreement to begin development of the Old Wives Lake Watershed Protection Plan.

"Partnering with non-profit groups like the Old Wives Watershed Association is an effective way to develop a watershed protection plan," Minister responsible for Saskatchewan Watershed Authority Dustin Duncan said. "Actions outlined in the plan will help to ensure safe, sustainable water supplies to support continued economic and population growth and a high quality of life for Saskatchewan people."

An initial step in the planning process will be the formation of both technical and watershed advisory committees to provide input, expertise and technical support for the planning process. Committee members represent federal, provincial, municipal and Aboriginal governments, conservation agencies, stewardship groups, producer groups and other local organizations.

"Technical and logistical information, data and knowledge contributed by various experts guide the development of the watershed protection plan by analyzing conditions and focusing attention on issues and risks associated with ground and surface water," OWWA Coordinator Lyle Thomson said.

In January 2012, open houses will be held to introduce watershed planning to residents of the Old Wives Lake Watershed and provide an opportunity for residents to become engaged with the Watershed Advisory Committee and the planning process.

The Old Wives Lake Watershed is located southwest of Moose Jaw and includes Old Wives Lake, Chaplin Lake and the Wood River.

The OWWA, formed in 2006, is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting ground and surface waters in the Old Wives Lake Watershed by working with local residents and landowners.

The Saskatchewan Watershed Authority leads the development of watershed protection plans. Eight watershed associations are currently working to implement nine watershed and aquifer protection plans across the province.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Gary Neil
Saskatchewan Watershed Authority
Moose Jaw
Phone: 306-694-3906

Lyle Thomson
Old Wives Watershed Association
Phone: 306-848-8040