Irrigation infrastructure to expand in Saskatchewan

The federal and provincial governments will fund millions of dollars to help develop and expand irrigation capacity in Saskatchewan, it was announced on Wednesday.

The $9-million in new funding will add approximately 4,500 acres of irrigation capacity in the province.

“This investment will provide a quick return through higher yields and opportunities for expanding the livestock industry, all boosting Saskatchewan producer’s bottom lines,” said Saskatoon-Rosetown-Biggar MP Kelly Block.

Block also said the funding to increase irrigation has the potential to expand production and lessen the effects of drought on the agriculture sector.

Funding will flow through the Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program (FRWIP) to all Saskatchewan irrigation districts that qualify under the program.

Districts have until May 18th to apply for funding and work must be completed by March 31, 2013.

Eligible costs under the program include the purchase and installation of pumps, pipelines, drains and consulting services.

Thunder Creek MLA Lyle Stewart says the provincial government is committed to the expansion of irrigation to give farmers the opportunity to add more high-value crops and that irrigation contributes to Saskatchewan’s agricultural industry and economy.

Funding under the FRWIP is provided by the federal-provincial Growing Forward framework.