Issuu

• Complete Automotive and Tire Service Centre • Journeyman Factory Trained Technicians • Easy Vehicle Repair & Accessory Financing Available FREE courtesy cars available Open 7:30-5:30 Monday - Friday

checkeredflagautomotive.ca

Receive 15% off your next service if you mention this ad!

109 Centennial Dr. No Martensville

Call: 306.975.2140

Message us on FB

Business as USUAL Located at BACK of building

MARTENSVILLE PHARMACY Monday-Friday 9-6 Saturday 10-3 Closed Sundays & Holidays

Your City; Your Newspaper July 22, 2021

17 Centennial Drive North

VOLUME NO. 15 - ISSUE 28

Re-roofs New Construction Residential Commercial

Over 9 Years Making Your Real Estate Dreams Come True!

306-931-2266

Bay 4 #1 - 4th St S Martensville

www.infinitysalonandspa.ca for online booking

Locally Owned and Operated Celebrating Fourteen Years of Community

306-934-4888 www.martenswarman.ca

306-931-2868

scottrooﬁngsask.com

306-384-(ROOF)7663 | 306-222-4093 scottlandru61@gmail.com

www.martensvillemessenger.ca

Swimming Through Obstacles

306-242-7888 www.saskfunerals.ca

Because We Care

591 Centennial Drive North - Martensville

We Offer 1 Time, Weekly, Bi-Weekly & Monthly Cleans House/Office cleaning•Deep cleaning•Move In/Out Cleaning & MUCH MORE

CALL & BOOK TODAY Pinkandtidy@outlook.com

The City of Martensville is providing a Wibits structure every Friday night at the Martensville Aquatic Centre. Wibits include a climbing wall, a slide, and other obstacle course elements. See page 3 for more information. Jocelyn Ottenbreit/MM

Reach More People With the Click of a Button by Advertising Online

ADVERTISE ONLINE Did You Know That the Martensville Messenger Offers Online Advertising Options That Provides a Direct Link to Your Business Website or Social Media Page? Sign Up Today For as Low as $109/month? Contact us at advertising@martensvillemessenger.ca, or (306) 668-1093 for more information.

Page 2 - JULY 22, 2021 - martensville messenger Box 970 37 Centennial Dr. S. Martensville, SK SOK 2TO Phone:(306) 931-2166

Visit www.martensville.ca for more information

COVID-19 Vaccinations and Living with COVID-19

Civic Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic What You Should Know!

While the public health order is lifted, COVID-19 will continue to circulate, particularly among unvaccinated populations. Being fully vaccinated is the best protection against COVID-19 and all residents will continue to be offered first and second doses through pharmacies and Saskatchewan Health Authority clinics.

City Hall is Open - Masks are no longer mandatory, but wearing a mask remains a reasonable precaution and individual choice.

There has been continued progression around the delivery of vaccines with the increase in number of vaccine clinics and eligibility for the public expanding as vaccine becomes administered and available.

Online and contactless payment options remain available for customer convenience, such as online banking, e-transfers, preauthorized payments or TIPPS. Cheques can also be dropped off after hours in the drop slot at City Hall.

The North Ridge Centre opened as an available vaccination centre hosting walk-in or appointment clinics. Please watch announcements regarding upcoming clinic dates and eligibility.

Please do not visit City Hall if you are feeling unwell, experiencing flu-like symptoms or have been in contact with someone who is presumptive or tested positive for COVID-19.

A comprehensive resource is available at https://www.saskatchewan.ca/COVID19-vaccine and includes information around vaccines as well as a gateway for online booking and what you should have ready prior to your vaccine.

Current Status of Public Facilities as of July 16th Martensville Athletic Pavilion - Operations completely resuming, including drop-in programs. Contact the MAP or Martensville.ca for information on upcoming programs or questions. City of Martensville City Hall Aquatic Centre - Open for the Season, capacity restrictions lifted, pre-registration no Hours of Operation: longer required or available. City Hall - Open Monday to Friday North Ridge Centre - Re-Opened for Bookings Heritage Centre - Re-Opened for Bookings 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Sports Centre - Closed for the Season(Excluding Statutory Holidays) Wheatland Regional Library (located in the Civic Centre) - Open

Bookings for vaccination can also be accessed by calling 1-833-SASKVAX Please continue to watch for updates for vaccine clinics in the area and for when you may be eligible to sign-up.

Safe Fires for a Safe Summer

The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) has issued a provincial fire ban for Crown lands, provincial parks and the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District, effective immediately. Municipalities examine the risk in their own area and there is no Fire Ban within the City of Martensville.

City Staff are available to work with the public via phone or email. Questions or inquiries can be directed to City Hall via phone (306-931-2166) or inquiry@martensville.ca

During summer, Martensville residents may partake and enjoy more outdoor activities in their backyards and patios. Martensville Fire Department would like to take this opportunity to take care and be mindful of the regulations for Residential Outdoor Fire Pits, Barbeques, Wood Piles and Fireworks to ensure the safety of themselves and others in our community.

Business Property Tax and Utility Update

Regulations include: - Fires must be contained within a non-combustible fire box constructed of material such as cement, brick or metal and covered with a heavy gauge screen and be at least 3m form combustible materials (fences, buildings etc) - The burning of rubbish, leaves or clippings is prohibited - Outdoor fires must be supervised - No permit is required for a private fireworks display but those fireworks must be set off in a manner that would not create danger or nuisance to neighbors - No person under the age of 18 shall set off fireworks - Ensure you have the civic address of your residence prominently displayed in the event of fire or emergency, this is to ensure responders can clearly identify your home For a complete list of regulations please visit martensville.ca or contact the Fire Department.

August Council Meeting Dates Please Note: With the commencement of Step 3, under the Provincial ‘Re-Opening Roadmap’ and ease of restrictions, upcoming Council Meetings are set to resume in person. Those still wishing to attend but would wish to do so virtually should contact the City Clerk. Committee of the Whole - August 10th Regular Council Meeting - August 17th The Regular Council Meetings are located at Martensville City Hall Council Chambers in Martensville City Hall at 37 Centennial Dr. S. All meetings commence at 5PM. Those wishing to address or do a presentation to Council must be placed on the agenda. To be placed on the agenda please contact the City Clerk’s office at City Hall or visit the website for details. The full Council and Committee of the Whole Schedule can be obtained at martensville.ca.

After Hour Water and Sewer Emergencies- should still be directed through the Emergency line at City Hall, (306) 931-2166, ext.1. The City has re-implemented the suspension of interest on property taxes and utilies for commercial or industrial properties retroactive from November 2020 until July 31st, 2021. Questions about Facilities or Programs? City Staff are available to work with the public via phone or email. Questions or inquiries can be directed to City Hall via phone (306-931-2166) or inquiry@martensville.ca OR the Martensville Athletic Pavilion (306-683-5576) or mapreception@martensville.ca

2021 is a Revaluation Year - What Do You Need To Know About Your Assessment and Taxes?

The City and the Province set tax mill rates which are applied to the property assessment values to determine the tax levy for city and education property tax. Detailed information about the 2021 Revaluation, Assessment, Taxes and the 2021 Budget can be found at Martensville.ca under, ‘Services for Residents, Property Tax and Assessment’. Property owners may also view their property report and assessment information online for at MySAMA & SAMAView. More Ways to Pay! - The City of Martensville is now accepting Ineterac e-Transfer as a payment option for your Property Taxes as well as utility bill, and licensing fees. E-Transfers can be providing using payments@martensville.ca , please reference your roll number or account number when making payment. Avoid Penalties and Interest Charges - Property Taxes for 2021 are due July 31st Questions about Taxation can be directed to City Hall at 931-2166.

Summer with the Martensville Library The Library will feature a number of programs through the summer months including the TD Summer Reading Club, the Summer Reading Book Mark Challenge, Take and Make Activity Kits, Look and Find at the Park and Storybook Trails. Visit the Library in person or their Facebook Page to see what is coming up this summer!

martensville messenger - JULY 22, 2021 - Page 3

WEEKEND WEATHER

High Low

25 16

High Low

25 13

High Low

27 16

City of Martensville Roadwork Begins This Week

ABOVE: Expect some road closures in Martensville this week as construction begins.

Martensville Aquatic Centre Offers Additional Fun Every Friday Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger

The Recreation Program for the City of Martensville is always thinking of new, fun things for our community to do and one of them can be found at the Martensville Aquatic Centre every Friday. “The City was able to purchase some inflatable water structures called Wibits, and each Friday they are set up in the pool for the public to use and enjoy,” said City of Martensville’s Recreation Program Coordinator II, Jamie McCulloch. McCulloch stated that the Wibits are set up in the deep end of the pool and those who are using them can race each other from one side to the other. The Wibits include a climbing wall, a slide, and other obstacle course elements. There are some rules when it comes to the Wibits such as only 10 people on them at a time, and life jackets are required for those who do not have their Swim Kids Level 6. For those of you looking for something to do, head on down to the Martensville Aquatic every Friday this summer for Wibit fun!

ARTENSVILLE

ESSENGER

Your City; Your Newspaper Box 333, Martensville, SK S0K 2T0 Phone: 306-668-1093 advertising@martensvillemessenger.ca Deadline for submissions is MONDAY at NOON.

www.martensvillemessenger.ca Published Thursdays • 48 issues/year

Editor/Office Manager: Shanine Sealey ssealey@martensvillemessenger.ca

Editor/Ad Design: Jocelyn Ottenbreit

jottenbreit@martensvillemessenger.ca

To Contact Us About Advertising: advertising@martensvillemessenger.ca

ARTENSVILLE

ESSENGER

Want to Share News?: news@martensvillemessenger.ca

With summer also comes construction projects. Martensville residents will soon begin seeing work taking place throughout the community, with multiple beginning this week. As of Wednesday, July 21st, work will begin with concrete and swale repairs at Main Street and 8th Avenue South and 6th Street North and 8th Avenue North. This work will result in closures and detours and the City asks residents to be mindful of crews and look for alternate routes in the three to four days it will take to complete these projects. Once concrete repairs are completed, the road will be re-opened until the contractors paving crew arrives, which is expected to be in early August. Once a detailed schedule is received by the City, residents that are directly affected by construction will be notified. Other projects throughout the community are scheduled to take place in August. More information about these can be found by visiting www.martensville. ca, the ‘City of Martensville’ Facebook page, or www. martensvillemessenger.ca.

City of Martensville Taking Steps to Grow Martensville Free Pantry Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

Earlier this year, Shewchuk At the July 13 City of spoke with the MIVC and the Free Pantry Martensville Committee of the Whole to discuss joining forces, as well as the meeting, Dillon Shewchuk, Community City taking on a more active role in ways Economic Development Manager, of providing funding, organization, and spoke to Council regarding a plan to potentially bringing on a board member bring the Martensville Free Pantry back from City Council. to it’s original location within the Civic “We are all sort of taking the Centre. plunge and seeing if we can get this Since created in 2016, the partnership to work and hopefully take Martensville Free Pantry has been the Free Pantry from something that was located within the Civic Centre; however, maybe a bit informal once the COVID into something that is pandemic hit, there a little more organized were concerns over and deliberate. We gathering points, touch have seen more people points and sanitization, utilizing the pantry and therefore was throughout the years unable to continue and I have learned that operating within there are families that this location. Deseri the Free Pantry is a Adrian, a resident of priority for, and others Martensville, took that need it from time it upon herself to ABOVE: Prior to COVID, the to time just to get by,” continue operating Martensville Free Pantry was located Shewchuk said. the free pantry at her within the hallway of the Civic Centre. The City of residence so people Martensville included $20,000 in the within the community could still have budget for food bank initiatives, which access to food items regularly. will be used towards supplies, shelving, The City has supported this fridges, freezers, staffing and other areas initiative by providing space for the free needed to ensure food security within the pantry and has seen the growth and need community. Additionally, with the support within the community rise throughout from the City, Shewchuk hopes that it the years. “there has become a greater can further galvanize support for the Free need to organize this service to ensure Pantry from the community. that donated food and items can get to “In doing this, we hope that those that need it the most on a regular people will have a better understanding basis, as well as to manage donations and of what they are donating to, and create a collections of food and any monetary or better capacity for accepting more than just gift card donations,” Shewchuk said in food items as gift cards and cash which is his report to Council. tougher to accept under the old system. In the past, the Martensville We anticipate that we could potentially see Information & Visitor Centre (MIVC) more support coming from the business has had an informal role with the Free community as well.” Pantry and with plans to move the Free Currently, the logistics are still Pantry back to the Civic Centre, would being worked out and Shewchuk noted be taking on a larger role with could that this is something they do not plan on include items such as pantry activities, rushing into to help ensure that everyone donations and working with volunteers, is continued to be taken care of during the groups and local organizations around transition. donation or fundraising activities.

“Advertising doesn’t cost; it pays!” Is your business reaching its full potential? Contact the Martensville Messenger Newspaper to help you with your advertising needs!

CALL 306.668.1093

Service PLUS Flat Glass Services!!

“Bringing the Tools to You!!”

Page 4 - JULY 22, 2021 - martensville messenger

Email JAGplus@sasktel.net

•Automotive Repair Specialists or call 361-4527Monday to Friday 7:30-5:30 801 Centennial Dr. North •Advanced technology & diagnostics facility Visit www.JAGplus.ca today!!

306-244-4950

Martensville, SK

KEEPING YOU SAFE & ON THE ROAD

Martensville SK 306-244-4950

Doukhobor Historic Site Provides Enjoyment For All Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger

ABOVE: A group of visitors got the chance to experience how the Doukhobors plowed their land.

School’s Out Fun at the MAP Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger

Now that school is out and some youngsters are looking for things to do, the City of Martensville, along with the Sportball Organization, is once again offering a Schools Out for Summer Program. The Sportball Organization focuses on physical literacy for kids with a specific activity every day such as lacrosse, tennis, volleyball, soccer, basketball and baseball. The City of Martensville is running the school yard games, science fun, and outdoor play. “Schools Out for the Summer is a program that keeps kids engaged, active, and having fun all summer long. The program is three hours long, either in the morning or afternoon, with a new theme each day,” said Jamie McCulloch, City of Martensville Recreation Program Coordinator II. McCulloch said that each day has activities and games that are related to a theme. Some of the themes include nature days, sport days like lacrosse and soccer, science fun, and playground games. These are the events in the upcoming weeks; *July 20-22-Lacrosse, Basketball, Volleyball *July 27-29-School Yard Games, Science Fun, Outdoor Play *Aug 3-5-Hockey, Golf, Football *Aug 10-12-Soccer, Baseball, Basketball The program takes place at the MAP three days a week and the cost is $15 a day. You can register on the City of Martensville's website at https://www.martensville. ca/ under Upcoming Events. 21075MM0 21075MM1

If you have never made the journey on Highway 12 to the Doukhobor Dugout House, located on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River, you still have two more opportunities to get out to the area, which has been designated a National Historic Site of Canada and experience an interesting part of Saskatchewan history. The Doukhobor Dugout House will be open July 24 and 31 from 10am to 5pm and is $10 per person – with free admission for those 12 and under. The drive to the historical site is breathtaking to say the least as I personally always enjoy the view at the Petrofka Bridge. Signs for the Doukhobor Dugout are located along Highway 12, and once you turn off, there is a short drive on a gravel road, then you are taken back in time to learn about the Russian Doukhobor immigrants that established this land in 1899 after fleeing their homeland. ABOVE: A glimpse inside the Typically, guided tours take place along the Doukhobor Prayer House. property where you learn about each area; however, this year, upon arriving, you are provided with a map that you can use to do a selfguided tour. This past Saturday, there was an opportunity for visitors to not only get a glimpse into the way of life for the Doukhobor people, but to also have a chance to experience the physical challenges that they faced. A demonstration of how the Doukhobors plowed their land using their own strength was done with members of the audience working together to plow a line in the field. Following the demonstration, we set off on our own self-guided tour along the property using the provided map and were amazed at the history we learned along the way. Our first stop was the dugout house, which is the only known surviving example of this form of temporary shelter within the country. The Doukhobors that settled in the Blaine Lake area utilized the natural landscape to help survive the harsh winter and limited availability of building materials. They created temporary dwellings that were located in a sheltered ravine and used until 1904 while permanent log houses were being constructed nearby. A total of 300 people lived in the dugout houses, with one 436 square foot area housing nine families who would cook and sleep within it. The next stop was the Oospenia Spring, which is the reason the Doukhobors chose this particular location as the spring was used as a drinking water source, as well as a water source for livestock and farming operators. The spring flows yearround with water from the North Saskatchewan River. Following the spring, we hiked back up the trail to the Doukhobor Barn, then to the Doukhobor Workshop, followed by a stop at the Leo Tolstoy House. Tolstoy, a famous Russian author that is best known for his book ‘War and Peace’, helped the Doukhobors by donating royalties from his book, ‘Resurrection’ to their emigration. We then moved on to the Doukhobor Banya (bath house) before taking a short break to indulge in a cold beverage and delicious meal of Doukhobor bread grilled cheese sandwiches with dill pickle pasta salad and a dove cookie for dessert. I also couldn’t resist the urge to purchase a loaf of Doukhobor bread to bring home with me. As our food was being prepared, we took a moment to explore the museum and gift shop. While eating, we enjoyed the views of the river from The Lordly Patio area. After eating, the final stop was the Doukhobor Prayer House, which you are able to enter and explore to learn even more about the Doukhobor people. I would definitely recommend taking the short drive out to spend an afternoon of enjoyment, history, fresh air, good food and beautiful scenery and can guarantee I will be visiting this location again in the future.

ABOVE: A Doukhobor Dugout House. BELOW: The Doukkhobor Workshop.

POLICE

BEAT

Numerous Impaired Drivers Removed From Roadways Over the Weekend Corman Park Police Service (CPPS) had a busy weekend removing impaired drivers from the road. On Friday, July 16, CPPS received multiple 911 calls regarding a vehicle travelling on Highway 14, west of Saskatoon. Callers reported that the vehicle was in oncoming traffic, in the ditch and hitting multiple pylons in the construction zones. The vehicle came to a stop when a nearby motorist took the keys from the driver. CPPS determined that the driver was impaired by a drug and arrested them for impaired operation. The driver was tested by a drug recognition expert of Dalmeny Police Service where it was determined that they were impaired by multiple different drugs. They were charged with impaired driving, dangerous driving, possessing a controlled substance and refusal. Additionally, CPPS partnered with the RCMP and conducted a stop ABOVE: Following a test by a drug recognition check on Valley Road near Paradise expert, a driver is now facing numerous charges. (Facebook) Beach on Saturday afternoon. In total, three drivers were arrested for impaired driving, and two more were suspended for provincial level impaired driving offences. One suspension was due to cannabis use. On the morning of Sunday, July 18, CPPS conducted a traffic stop on Highway 11 near Warman on a suspected impaired driver. The driver has never had a drivers license and failed a Sotoxa drug test for cannabis. The vehicle was impounded.

Warman RCMP Investigating Motor Vehicle Collision On Highway #7 West Of Delisle

On Friday, July 17 at approximately 3:55 p.m., Warman RCMP responded to a motor vehicle collision on Highway #7, approximately 2 kilometers west of Delisle. Investigation has determined that an eastbound car collided with a westbound pickup truck pulling a horse trailer. The adult female driver of the car was taken to hospital by STARS with serious injuries.

We do not have an update on her condition. The adult female driver and youth female passenger of the pickup truck were transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The two horses in the trailer were not hurt. Highway #7 was closed in both directions during the initial investigation. Warman RCMP and an RCMP traffic reconstructionist continue to investigate.

Information Wanted Regarding Langham Pharmacy Theft

Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers shared information on July 19 via social media to help Warman RCMP regarding a break, enter and theft that took place at a pharmacy in Langham on July 14, 2021 at approximately 3:39am. Numerous narcotics, cash and other items were stolen. If you can identify either of the individuals in the photo below and/or have information regarding this crime, contact Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477 to leave an anonymous tip. If your tip leads to an arrest or charge, you may be eligible for a reward of up to $2000. More photos of this and other crimes can be found on the ‘Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers’ Facebook page.

martensville messenger - JULY 22, 2021 - Page 5

Provincial Fire Ban Has Been Lifted

Due to recent rainfall and cooler weather, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) is lifting the provincial fire ban that has been in place since July 2. The ban had applied to all Crown lands, provincial parks and the Northern Saskatchewan Administration District. Some municipalities continue to experience a high fire risk and may choose to keep their fire bans in place. The SPSA continues to encourage all municipalities to examine the fire risk in their local area and reminds the public to practice fire safety. ABOVE: Cooking a bush pie over an open fire is Anyone who spots a wildfire can call 1-800-667-9660, again possible after the provincial fire ban was lifted this week. dial 9-1-1 or contact their closest SPSA Forest Protection Area office. People can find the latest fire risk maps and municipal fire ban map at www. saskatchewan.ca/fire. Established in 2017, the SPSA is a Treasury Board Crown Corporation responsible for emergency management, Sask911, SaskAlert, the Civic Addressing Registry, wildfire management and fire safety.

just THINK...

Had this been your ad, people would have noticed it.

Call the Martensville Messenger and ask about our affordable advertising

Ph: 306-668-1093

Page 6 - JULY 22, 2021 - martensville messenger

martensville messenger - JULY 22, 2021 - Page 7

MLA Terry Jenson’s Report from the Legislature Enhanced Support for Livestock Producers

Sask. Party Gov’t Must Guard Against Political Traps

The benefit of an older, more experienced government is they tend not to make the same mistakes as newer ones. It’s why they get re-elected. Newer governments are inclined to change direction for the sake of change … sometimes, even when there’s no good reason for change. Older governments are more inclined to pursue the path that keeps getting them reelected. The problem, however, is things do change when it comes to public needs and, especially, when it comes to anticipating public needs down the road. It’s tough for any government to anticipate those future needs, but the specific problem for older governments — especially ones without much fear of being removed from office any time soon — is falling into the trap nothing ever really needs to change. As a result, they lean into what’s been working for them — what has gotten them re-elected. It’s good politics, but it also means that old governments are even less inclined to see change coming and start to think about what needs to be done to address a changing world. It’s been nine months since the Saskatchewan Party government easily secured its fourth consecutive mandate. That it seemed to emerge from the problems of the COVID-19 pandemic without so much as scratch in that election will only enhance confidence in government that it doesn’t have to change much of anything; however, it’s questionable whether that’s the most productive approach. For example, Premier Scott Moe last week called the federal government decision to reject the Sask. Party government’s alternative plan for carbon pricing “arbitrary and political.” Saskatchewan’s request for a federal review came after it lost its Supreme Court challenge opposing the carbon tax, leaving this government without political options. Moe argued that what it had proposed is about the same as New Brunswick’s plan that uses proceeds from the carbon tax to offset gas prices. Now, it’s easy out here to agree with Moe because Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government carbon tax policies have been politically designed to be more palatable in Eastern Canada that has a greater voting population and less carbon-intense industry. Also, early years of this federal carbon tax have offered little to indicate they are actually doing much to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. That said, the one thing about Ottawa jacking up at-the-pump costs of gas is that it makes it more difficult to suggest that the carbon tax isn’t about reducing carbon emissions and given Ottawa’s new minimum standards by 2023, what New Brunswick is doing soon likely won’t be acceptable, either. The bottom line is that the Sask. Party government knew that new benchmarks were coming and had time to present something that wouldn’t have been rejected. So either no form of carbon pricing — something that the Sask. Party government has supported, in general, since 2010 — is workable or this government would rather keep up the political fight. It seems very likely that — at least part of Moe’s expressed concerns — have something to do with a desire to keep up this political fight and not deal with costly climate change initiatives. It’s good politics out here — helpful to both the Sask. Party and helpful to the federal Conservative party — to simply keep fighting with Trudeau and the Liberals, but the problem with the environment being part of the federal Liberal government brand is that it means there’s even less incentive for the Sask. Party government to invest in costly GHG reduction programs. In unveiling its recent 2020-21 SaskPower annual report showing a $160-million profit — $45 million less than last year — Crown electrical utility acknowledged a $5-billion, 30-year agreement to by power from Manitoba Hydro. Were there other green options that might have created jobs in Saskatchewan? Quite likely, but old governments sometimes don’t consider things like that.

The hot and dry conditions across the province are creating challenges for our farmers and ranchers. Topsoil moisture levels continue to decrease, and many areas will have their yields and quality impacted without some timely rain. Many of our livestock producers are also having trouble sourcing feed and ensuring quality water sources. Effective immediately, changes will be made to allow low yielding crops to be put to alternate use to support the livestock sector. The Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation is doubling the Low Yield Appraisal threshold values for customers who salvage their cereal or pulse crops as feed, without negatively impacting future individual coverage. Crop Insurance coverage will not be negatively impacted if customers choose to divert grain crops to feed. Livestock producers can gain access to feed sources from Crop Insurance customers who choose to put their crops to a use other than harvest. I encourage all local producers to contact your local SCIC office to discuss options. The Government of Saskatchewan is also making changes to temporarily increase the maximum funding a livestock producer can receive from the Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program (FRWIP) for dugouts, wells and pipelines. Presently, under FRWIP, costs related to dugouts, pipelines and wells are funded at 50 per cent of eligible costs, to a maximum rebate of $50,000 over the life of the program. For the period April 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022, the maximum rebate for livestock producers only will increase to $150,000. The first $50,000 will be based on a 50-50 cost-share and the remaining $100,000 will be on a 70-30 government-producer cost-share. Agriculture is at the heart of our province and your government is working to ensure we support our producers as we get through this difficult growing season.

Public Health Restrictions Now Ended But Challenge Continues Despite these challenges, Saskatchewan is now fully open, and residents are set to have an amazing summer seeing family, friends, our province, and our Saskatchewan Roughriders. After seventeen months of COVID-19 precautions, all public health restrictions have been lifted. This includes mandatory masking and limits on events and gathering sizes. While COVID-19 is still here, more than half of our population is now fully vaccinated which gives us greater protection as we begin returning to normal activities. At a time when individuals and families are navigating what life will look like as we emerge from the pandemic, I want to provide some clarity as to where we are at today. While the public health order requiring masking in indoor spaces has come to an end, masking will continue to be an option for all residents who wish to do so. Some businesses may also choose to maintain masking requirements but that is up to them. The removal of public health orders does not mean the pandemic is over. COVID-19 will continue to circulate, particularly among unvaccinated populations, and being fully vaccinated is our best protection. All residents will continue to be offered first and second doses. While there are currently no COVID-19 vaccines approved for children under 12, all residents 12+ are encouraged to be fully vaccinated to afford these groups the best circle of protection possible. Children can contract, transmit and become ill with COVID-19, though the risk for serious health outcomes is lower than older populations. If you are fully vaccinated, all activities with children will be considered lower risk. If you are eligible for either your first or second dose, you can find a vaccination clinic or pharmacy location online www.saskatchewan. ca/covid-19-vaccine. Prekindergarten to Grade 12 schools will return to regular operations for the 2021-22 school year and licensed childcare facilities can now return to regular pre-pandemic operations. Long-term care homes and personal care homes may allow an unlimited number of visitors and family members for their residents, subject to scheduling limitations in a home. Visitors and families will be screened for symptoms of COVID-19 and will be offered rapid antigen testing in Saskatchewan Health Authority facilities. Visitors and families are strongly encouraged to continue to wear masks during visits and to maintain physical distance, especially if not fully vaccinated. Staff will continue to take precautions to protect residents including masking, screening, rapid testing and use of personal protective equipment. Public health will continue monitoring and responding to localized COVID-19 outbreaks. Testing will still be available, contact tracing will continue and cases and close contacts who are not fully immunized may be advised to isolate by public health officials. As always, if you have questions, comments, concerns, or require assistance with provincial government programs or services, please contact my Constituency Office.

just THINK...

Had this been your ad, people would have noticed it.

Call the Martensville Messenger and ask about our affordable advertising

Ph: 306-668-1093 Letter to the Editor

The Martensville Messenger welcomes letters to the editor for publication. Letters must be signed and a phone number and/or email address included so the writer’s identity can be verified. ALL letters are the opinion of the writer and NOT the Martensville Messenger. We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity or compliance with the current standards of public taste. Submit your letter to news@martensvillemessenger.ca or mail to Box 333 Martensville, SK S0K 2T0.

able, able, ble, vailable, re, re, ds. ware, ds. , needs. also s. also ges also lso

Page 8 - JULY 22, 2021 - martensville messenger

Government Of Saskatchewan Enhances Support For Producers Dealing With Dry Conditions Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit announced that Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) will implement measures to address dry conditions impacting producers. Effective immediately, changes will be made to allow low yielding crops to be put to alternate use to support the livestock sector. The Government of Saskatchewan is also making changes to temporarily increase the maximum funding a livestock producer can receive from the Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program (FRWIP) for dugouts, wells and pipelines. "Our livestock sector is facing tremendous challenges sourcing feed, as well as some challenges in securing access to sustainable, quality livestock water sources," Marit said. "Agriculture is a vital part of our provincial economy and we are taking steps to support producers through this extended period of dry, hot conditions." "I want to encourage grain producers to work with neighbouring livestock producers to make feed available. SCIC is working with customers to ensure damaged crops, intended for harvest, can be put to an alternate use such as silage, baling or grazing." When crops are severely damaged and the appraised yield falls below an established threshold level, the yield is reduced to zero. In response to the feed shortage this year, SCIC is doubling the Low Yield Appraisal threshold values for customers who salvage their cereal or pulse crops as feed, without negatively impacting future individual coverage. For example, the previous established threshold for barley was seven bushels per acre. For Crop Insurance customers wanting to utilize a grain crop for feed, the threshold will now be 14 bushels per acre. In this case, a zero bushel yield would be used for the claim and the original 14 bushels would be used to update future coverage. Customers are asked to contact their local SCIC office before they graze, bale or silage any damaged crops to discuss their options. Crop Insurance coverage will not be

negatively impacted if customers chose to divert grain crops to feed. Livestock producers can gain access to feed sources from Crop Insurance customers who choose to put their crops to a use other than harvest. Producers are encouraged to contact their neighbouring operations to set up arrangements. Presently, under FRWIP, costs related to dugouts, pipelines and wells are funded at 50 per cent of eligible costs, to a maximum rebate of $50,000 over the life of the program. For the period April 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022, the maximum rebate for livestock producers only will increase to $150,000. The first $50,000 will be based on a 50-50 cost-share and the remaining $100,000 will be on a 70-30 governmentproducer cost-share. FRWIP and Crop Insurance are both offered through the federal-provincial Canadian Agricultural Partnership agreement. The Government of Saskatchewan has also formally requested the federal government designate the entire province as eligible through the Livestock Tax Deferral program, for all Saskatchewan producers who may need to liquidate part of their breeding herd due to feed or water shortages. The AgriStability Program provides an option for producers looking to access a portion of their benefit early. Through the interim benefit, producers enrolled in AgriStability can get 50 per cent of their estimated final benefit. The Farm Stress Line is available for support. The Farm Stress Line is a confidential service, available 24-hoursa-day, seven-days-a-week, toll-free at 1-800-667-4442. Calls are answered by Mobile Crisis Services Regina, a non-profit, community-based agency and there is no call display. Government continues to monitor the situation and engage with stakeholders and federal-provincial-territorial counterparts.SCIC is here to help during this difficult time. Producers can contact their local SCIC office, call toll-free at 1-888-935-0000 or visit www.scic.ca to review available options and ensure decisions are not delayed.

Business & Professional