New funding is now available for channel clearing and agricultural drainage projects

Saskatchewan has announced up to $1 million for channel clearing and maintenance on agricultural drainage projects. 

The Water Security Agency says the money is available for local governments, RM's, Conservation and Development Area Authorities and Watershed Associations.

The funding is available through a 50 per cent rebate on eligible costs for activities carried out during the 2022-23 program year.

Activities can include removing silt, beaver dams and debris, such as trees, brush and deadfall, to lessen the possibilities of blockages that can cause flooding to roadways and agricultural land.

The deadline to apply for the rebate is January 31, 2023.

Higher diesel prices are raising harvest and freight costs for farmers. Shay Myers of Owyhee Produce says fuel adds nearly $40,000 to weekly operating costs compared with a year ago, while freight costs have doubled.