Saskatchewan’s Water Security Agency introduces $500,000 replacement program

REGINA, SASK. – Saskatchewan’s Water Security Agency (WSA) is launching a $500,000 cost-sharing pilot program to help rural municipalities (RMs) and irrigation districts with replacing infrastructure such as bridges and culverts that cross WSA channels.

To be eligible for 50/50 cost sharing, bridges or culvert-style crossings must cross WSA canals or other conveyance while maintaining current flow rates.

“As replacement costs for infrastructure continue to rise, WSA is partnering with RMs and irrigators to alleviate the financial impact of replacement, all while safeguarding provincial infrastructure and protecting our communities,” provincial minister responsible for the WSA Jeremy Cockrill said in a statement.

“Thanks to a grant from the WSA Infrastructure Crossing Replacement Program, an RM can not only complete a bridge or culvert project, but the money saved can be used for other critical infrastructure,” Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities president Ray Orb added.

There is no deadline to apply to the program, and grants will be issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Costs incurred through March 31, 2024, will be considered, a release said.

More information and an application form is located here.