Dear Honourable Scott Moe, Premier of Saskatchewan:
I am writing about the proposed agricultural water stewardship policy, to be formed by Water Security Agency (WSA) this fall.
The quality of our province’s freshwater systems is important for the health and vitality of our residents, and our wildlife, including aquatic life. The quality of water in our lakes and rivers is critical to our tourism industry and the communities that rely on those industries. Water quality is important for the health of all residents who rely on these systems as a source of drinking water, and a place of recreation.
These systems are under serious stress from domestic waste, climate change, nutrient loading, and other consequences of domestic and farmland drainage. A wetlands policy that gives priority to the reclamation and maintenance of wetlands is part of the longterm solution to restore and protect these fragile and important resources. A wetlands policy will mitigate flooding, prevent droughts, secure the protection of drinking water.
Since 2018, the Provincial Auditor has been critical of the Province of Saskatchewan’s failure to establish an adequate wetlands policy. Saskatchewan is the only province without a policy, which puts the downstream farmers and communities/First Nations at risk. Other provinces, such as Alberta and Manitoba, have already developed wetland policies ensuring success for ALL.
I urge you to develop a wetland policy first, then followed by the agricultural stewardship plan. This will ensure EVERYONE in the province will benefit.
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