The Saskatchewan Water Security Agency (WSA) is encouraging rural municipalities (RMs) and Conservation and Development Area Authorities (C&Ds) across the province to take advantage of up to $1.5 million available this year for funding. Originally budgeted at $600,000 for the fiscal year of 2020-2021 for channel clearing, it is now increased (2021-2022) to $1.5 million for a total investment of $2 million over two years.
Blocked watercourses cause hardship for rural communities and with the streamlining of the support program, the Water Security Agency has removed barriers to simplify the application process.
The channel clearing program assists RMs, C&Ds and Watershed Associations to remove debris, silt and beaver dams from natural watercourses to lessen the possibilities of blockages that can cause flooding to roadways and agricultural land.
"Keeping our natural waterways clear of obstructions like sediment and beaver dams is not only good for rural Saskatchewan and producers, but it also helps protect rural infrastructure," Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities president Ray Orb said. "SARM welcomes the WSA's expanded funding for channel clearing this year and making the process to apply easier, which will certainly benefit communities in Saskatchewan."
Constructed works for drainage or moving water are not eligible for the rebate. The deadline to apply is January 31, 2022.
For more information on the program please visit www.wsask.ca/Water-Programs/Channel-Clearing/.
