SASKATOON – Construction is underway to rehabilitate four kilometres of a major waterway structure in south-central Saskatchewan. The upgrade to the M1 Canal will help to increase the flow and provide a more abundant source of water for thirsty users.
The $10 million upgrade is enlarging a portion of the canal’s bed by over three metres.
“We’re ensuring there is a major source of water for not only the agricultural and industrial sectors, but many people in nearby towns, villages and Blackstrap Provincial Park,” said Scott Moe, the minister responsible for the Water Security Agency.
An initial project completion date for the M1 Canal is set for 2020 and will increase service life by half a century.
READ MORE: Rehab for Saskatchewan water transport system
Built in the 1960’s, the 22.5 km canal supplies water from Lake Diefenbaker to the Broderick Reservoir near Outlook, Sask. It serves approximately 37,000 acres of irrigated lands, six reservoirs and three potash mines.
The waterway structure also helps feed the Saskatoon South East Water Supply (SSEWS) system.
Since 2010, the province has invested over $20 million towards the rehabilitation of the M1 Canal.
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