Irrigation Project Status
The demand for expanding irrigation has been unprecedented, with significant interest expressed by clients throughout the province, including systems and basins with limited water for new development. Such opportunities reinforce the strength and diversity of Saskatchewan’s agricultural industry.
As the expansion of irrigation puts increased pressure on our shared water resources, WSA takes the time to investigate the impact of new irrigation projects. Right now, there are various projects that are being explored, reviewed, and monitored with public consultations ongoing.
By creating a more resilient prairie economy and enhancing climate change resiliency, we deliver exceptional service to our diverse clients, including agricultural producers, communities, suppliers, processors, municipalities, and industry partners.
Here are some of the ongoing projects that WSA is working on with the latest details and status.
Lake Diefenbaker Irrigation Projects
The Lake Diefenbaker Irrigation Projects are only possible because of the existence of the Gardiner Dam and Qu’Appelle River Dam, constructed between 1958 and 1967. Gardiner Dam, one of the largest earth filled dams in the world, has played a significant role in irrigation, flood control, the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, and a source for recreation since it officially opened in July of 1967. This project is the continuation of the vision that first created Lake Diefenbaker. In addition to completing and opening the existing Westside Irrigation Project, the Qu’Appelle South Water Conveyance Project will expand the reach and result in a completely new canal system extending all the way to Buffalo Pound Lake to serve the areas of Tugaske, Eyebrow, and Marquis.
Duncairn Reservoir
Duncairn Reservoir is located on Swift Current Creek, 30 kilometers southwest of Swift Current. The reservoir was formed to supply the Rush Lake, Waldeck, and Herbert irrigation projects. It has evolved into a supply reservoir for the City of Swift Current and other irrigation projects.
In 2023, the Water Security Agency (WSA) conducted a water availability assessment of the Duncairn Reservoir. The assessment identified additional water available for irrigation development and WSA continues work to determine how the reservoir could be used in the future.
Quill Lakes Water Management
Quill Lakes
The situation in the Quill Lakes is one of the most complex water management issues in Canada. The Water Security Agency (WSA) has been looking into options to deal with the rising lake levels for a number of years. In 2015, WSA announced the new Agricultural Water Management Strategy and regulations governing agricultural drainage. The new regulatory approach seeks to bring all drainage works into compliance, starting with the highest risk areas. The Quill Lakes Basin is one of the highest risk areas in the province because of the flooding impacts to farmland and infrastructure.
Helgason Dam
Located 3 kilometers south of Foam Lake, the Helgason Community Dam was constructed in the winter of 1967-68. Originally built to address water shortages and agricultural use, today, the dam presents a unique opportunity. It stands as a potential water supply for irrigation and provides some mitigation for flood issues caused by the rising levels of the Quill Lakes.