FIRST SPRING RUNOFF FORECAST FOR 2008

The February forecast of potential spring runoff levels in the province has been released.

The Saskatchewan Watershed Authority issues a monthly Provincial Streamflow Forecast which describes the general water supply conditions in the province and provides forecasts of expected flow conditions and lake levels.

The current snowpack conditions vary across the grainbelt region of the province from below normal in southern areas, to well above normal in northern areas.

In northern areas of the grainbelt, above average winter precipitation, combined with a very wet fall has created the potential for another high spring runoff in 2008. Depending on additional winter snowfall accumulations, and the timing of the spring runoff, there is potential that the peak flows could approach those experienced last spring in this area. Very high water levels are expected again this spring on Wakaw Lake, Lenore Lake, Houghton Lake, Deadmoose Lake and Fishing Lake. These lakes are still at well above normal levels following the last two high runoff years.

In sharp contrast, southern areas of the grainbelt experienced a dry fall and well below normal winter precipitation to date. Soil moisture conditions across the south were also considered dry at freeze up as well. In addition, periods of thawing temperatures in early January melted much of the south pack in south western, south central and west central areas. The primary concern, especially in south western and south central areas, is a low runoff resulting in water supply shortages.

"This forecast shows just how different various areas of the province are when it comes to runoff and water supply," Minister responsible for the Saskatchewan Watershed Authority Nancy Heppner said. "Our north is likely going to have another high runoff year, while the south is facing more of a shortage situation. The Authority will continue to monitor streamflow and runoff conditions and advise the public of any changes."

The 2008 Spring Runoff Potential outlook map for February 1, 2008, is attached. This outlook is based on soil moisture conditions at freeze-up and existing snowpack accumulations as of the end of January. This forecast also assumes normal climate conditions will occur between now and the end of spring runoff.

The Saskatchewan Watershed Authority will prepare a detailed forecast in mid-March 2008.

The full February forecast is online at www.swa.ca under Water Management/Provincial Forecast.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Doug Johnson
Saskatchewan Watershed Authority
Moose Jaw
Phone: 306-694-3959
Email: doug.johnson@swa.ca
Cell: 306-631-0740