Upcoming Council and Committee of the Whole Meeting Dates
City of Martensville Council Meetings and Committee of the Whole Meetings are open to the public and we invite you to attend in person or virtually to see what is happening in our community.
June 3rd - Regular Council Meeting
June 10th – Committee of the Whole June 17th – Regular Council Meeting
Location: Martensville City Hall Council Chambers, 37 Centennial Drive.
Time: All meetings begin at 5 pm
If you’d like to speak or present at a meeting, make sure you’re on the agenda by contacting the City Clerk’s office. If you prefer to join from the comfort of your home, contact the City Clerk or check the online agenda at martensville.ca for the meeting link.
Council Recap – May 13th- Committee of the Whole Meeting
Please Note: This is a brief summary of the most recent meeting. For more detailed information on the agenda and the official minutes, please visit Martensville.ca. Official minutes are posted once approved.
Presentations
The RCMP provided their report that included a year over year comparison of crime rates in Martensville. Fraud cases in the area continue to be active. Staffing capacity is anticipated to increase over the next month, with vacancies being filled. The new body camera initiative has enhanced policing, and all members are trained in their use. A reallocation of resources will lead to a traffic section being implemented this summer.
Reports from Administration Council Policy and Administrative Policy - The City Manager presented information that encompasses all current City of Martensville policies. There is a desire to clarify and differentiate polices between internal administrative polices and outward, governancerelated Council policies.
Subdivision 501 2nd Street South - Council was presented an application for a subdivision. This would create 2 parcels from a single lot in the R1A Zone.
Subdivision of Parcel QQ - Located in Lake Vista off Mirond Road, this land is slated for the development of a 20-unit dwelling group. The subdivision application would accommodate the first 7 lots for this condominium development.
Patient Abandonment - The Martensville Fire Department received correspondence form the Saskatchewan Health Authority outlining responsibilities for first responders when applying care. The MFD has asked for clarification around this correspondence because the department currently utilizes the practices and procedures that align with the SHA for first response care.
Council also reviewed a letter from a Town Councillor in Langham outlining concerns on municipal resources being relied on for first response care. Martensville Council would be drafting a letter that would call for enhancing ambulance support and capacity in the region to help ease pressure on municipal volunteer resources, first responders and fire departments
Organics/Green Bin Program and Pick-ups
The City of Martensville offers a Green Bin program through Loraas Organics that runs from May through the end of October.
This service is by subscription, with scheduled bi-weekly collection alternating between North/South Martensville on Fridays. The next pickup-day for the North Side is May 23rd. The next pickup-day for the South Side is May 30th.
For more information on signing up for the program contact the Utility Clerk at City Hall. Visit Martensville.ca to view the full pick-up schedule.
North Prairie Developments and CANWEST Monster Garage Sale - May 23rd & 24th
Join us for the Monster Garage Sale, happening on May 23rd and 24th. Register your house with the City of Martensville for $5, and have your address distributed with other registrants on flyers throughout the city. Flyers will be available for pick up at gas stations, the MAP, and City Hall.
Registration can be done at City Hall, the MAP, online, or by calling 306-683-5576.
Visit Martensville.ca > Program Registrations > Community Events for more information.
Martensville & Area Healthcare Advocacy Initiative: Health Fair – May 31st
The Martensville & Area Healthcare Advocacy Initiative is presenting their first community health fair. The fair will offer resources and information for community members of all ages, with presentations from local healthcare businesses, Martensville’s Nurse Practitioners, representatives from the USask College of Medicine, and more. The event will run from 10am-2pm on May 31st at the Martensville City Hall Green Space. Stay tuned for additional information in the coming weeks.
Street Sweeping Season
Street sweeping crews have started their first pass of street cleaning this week. This initial pass aims to remove the bulk of road surface debris that has built up over the winter.
Once the bulk of material removal has been completed, crews will be returning for a more thorough cleaning, which will include residential areas. Please watch for signs and posts in your neighborhood. We ask that vehicles be removed from the streets on your ‘sweep’ day, however, vehicle ticketing and towing will not be enforced.
As a reminder, please keep a safe distance from street sweeping equipment as crews work. For more information about street sweeping, contact City Hall.
Buster Days 40th Anniversary: June 6-8
Martensville is celebrating 40 years for one of the biggest annual events in the community – Buster Days! This year, Buster Days will take place on June 6,7, and 8, and will include Music Bingo, Swim Night, a Slo-Pitch Tournament, Fireworks, Martensville Street Hockey Tournament, Pancake Breakfast, Firefit Championships, a parade, a variety of food trucks, petting zoo, and many more events.
For more information on these events and full schedule, visit: busterdays.com.
Martensville Fire Department Gears Up to Host Regional FireFit Championships During Buster Days
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
The Martensville Fire Department is calling on the community to help bring energy and excitement to one of the most intense firefighting competitions in the country, the Saskatchewan Regional FireFit Championships, happening June 7th and 8th at the Martensville Athletic Pavilion (MAP).
As part of Martensville’s 40th Annual Buster Days, this high-octane event will see firefighters from across Canada compete in timed challenges that replicate real-life emergency situations. These include Tower Climb, Hose Pack Carry, Hose Hoist, Forcible Entry, Hose Advance and Victim Rescue.
The FireFit Competitions is often referred to as the “toughest two minutes in sports”, as the events test not only physical strength and endurance, but also the teamwork and precision essential in real-world firefighting scenarios.
With races running from 10:00am to 4:00pm on both days, spectators can expect non-stop action, strength, strategy, and skill on full display, all in celebration of the life-saving work firefighters do every day.
In preparation for the event, Martensville Fire shared on social media, that they are on the lookout for a
high-energy, upbeat announcer to provide live, play-byplay commentary throughout the competition. Whether you have broadcasting experience or just love to hype up a crowd, the Martensville Fire Department wants to hear from you.
The FireFit Championships are free of charge, and will be open to the public, making it the
perfect outing for families and community members.
Join in celebrating the bravery and athleticism of Canada’s firefighters and help make this milestone Buster Days even more memorable.
Martensville previously hosted the FireFit Championships during Buster Days in 2018 at the Martensville Sports Centre.
Martensville Lions Host Annual Dog Walk in Honor of Fellow Lion
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
The Martensville & District Lions Club is proud to host its annual Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides on Saturday, May 25th at Lions Park, with the walk route stretching between Lions Park and Kinsmen Park. This year’s event holds special significance as it marks the 40th anniversary of the nationwide initiative.
Held annually in communities across Canada, the Walk for Dog Guides raises critical funds to provide specially trained dog guides at no cost to individuals and families in need. Without the support of the Lions Foundation of Canada Dog Guides, these life-changing companions would cost between $35,000 - $50,000.
The process of receiving a dog guide begins with an application through a local Lions Club, followed by an assessment by the Dog Guide Foundation in Oakville, Ontario. If accepted, the recipient is flown to Oakville to meet their perfectly matched dog; chosen based on specific needs, such as allergies or disabilities. Once paired, a trainer visits the recipient’s home to assist with the transition and training process.
There are seven different kinds of dog guides available, which include; Canine Vision for people with visual impairments, Hearing Assistance for people that are deaf or hard of hearing, Service Dog Guides for people with a medical or physical disability, Seizure Response Dog Guides for people affected by epilepsy, Autism Assistance for children on the autism spectrum, Diabetes Alert Dog Guides for people with Type 1 diabetes with hypoglycemic unawareness and Facility Support Dog Guides for professional agencies that assist individuals in traumatic situations.
Over the past 11 years, the Martensville Lions Club has proudly helped provide two dog guides to local families: Ivan, an Autism Assistance Dog Guide, and Pearl, a Hearing Dog Guide. The club is currently working with another local child to ensure he receives a dog guide once he reaches the eligible age of 12.
This year’s walk carries added emotional significance as it will be held in honour of Doug Ward, a cherished Martensville Lions Club member who has played a pivotal role in organizing the event over the years and is now in hospice care battling cancer.
“This year, we are naming the event ‘Walk for Doug’, and every year moving forward, it’ll be ‘Walk with Doug’,” said Maria Fowler, a long-time Lions member and close friend of Doug’s. “He started this in Martensville, and we’re carrying it on in his honor. It’s a tribute to everything he’s done for our club and community.”
Thanks to Doug’s organization and passion for this event, the Martensville
event has grown into one of the top 10 fundraisers in Canada for the past two years. In 2024, the club raised an impressive $15,865, and this year, they aim to surpass that total.
“It’s an honour for our club to recognize Doug for all his hard work and we hope that we can get lots of people to come out and support us and join us in this event. We want to make this an even bigger and better year for Doug, in honour of him,” Fowler stated, adding that they are hoping Doug will be well enough to make an appearance on Sunday.
To donate or find out more about the Martensville Walk for Dog Guides, visit www. walkfordogguides.com/fundraisers/ martensvillewalkfordogguides. Donations will also be accepted in person at the event, with debit payments available.
In partnership with the Saskatoon Lions Club, the Martensville Lions are aiming to make this year’s walk their largest and most impactful yet. Join the community on May 25th and be a part of something truly life-changing for local families.
Registration will begin at 1:00pm on Sunday, May 25th in Lions Park, with the walk beginning at 2:00pm. There will be pup cups available for the four-legged participants, and a BBQ for the human participants.
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ABOVE: Martensville hosted the FireFit Competition during Buster Days in 2018, and will once again be bringing the highintensity competition back to the community. On June 7th and 8th from 10:00am-4:00pm, spectators can watch the event, often referred to as the toughest two minutes in sports, free of charge.
ABOVE:
group photo from the 2024 Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides, with Martensville & District Lions Club member Doug Ward in the centre wearing blue.
ABOVE: Martensville & District Lions Club member Doug Ward, who is currently in hospice battling cancer, has been a leading force in organizing the Pet Valu Walk for Dog Guides within the community.
Martensville City Council Meeting Highlights: Daycare Development, Zoning Amendments & More
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger
Martensville City Council met for their final meeting of the month on Tuesday, May 21, with a full agenda that included public hearings, subdivision approvals, zoning bylaw updates, and key departmental reports.
The meeting began with a public hearing regarding a discretionary use application to develop a 90seat licensed daycare at 100 Main Street West, located in the front commercial rental space of the Martensville Recreation Centre. This facility, once approved, will offer essential childcare services to the growing community.
The daycare project has already received provincial approval and is backed by a $1.3 million investment through the Canada-Saskatchewan CanadaWide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement. These funds will be used for base building upgrades; including flooring, electrical, and mechanical systems, as well as tenant improvements necessary to meet daycare standards.
The facility is expected to create over 20 fulltime positions, with additional part-time and casual roles, contributing to Martensville’s local economy. It will operate Monday through Friday, from 7:00am to 6:00pm, with designated parking and drop-off areas.
City Council’s approval is required to finalize the lease agreement and proceed with development. Without it, the daycare cannot legally operate at this location.
A presentation was made to Council by Alan Wallace of Wallace Insights, who provided Council with information on a long-term plan for Martensville’s Main Street. Inspired by models such as Broadway Avenue in Saskatoon and First Avenue in Ladysmith, BC, the project explores how zoning, design, and long-term
policy can build a welcoming and robust Main Street in Martensville, an amenity the community currently lacks. The initiative is in its early stages, with public engagement and planning sessions expected in the near future.
Council also reviewed and approved two subdivision motions. One for 501 2nd Street South to subdivide one lot into two, supporting low to mediumdensity residential development, and the other for parcel QQ in Lake Vista, which is a proposal for the development of a 20-unit bareland condominium.
Council also discussed proposed amendments to the zoning regulations for care homes in R1 (residential) districts. Key elements of the proposed bylaw included adding Residential Care Homes Type II (up to 15 residents) as a discretionary use in R1 zones, reducing parking requirements for care facilities and expanding the definition of Custodial Care Facilities to include services governed under the Mental Health Services Act.
The new framework simplifies classifications into two main categories—Residential Care (e.g., group homes, senior residences, hospice care) and Custodial Care (e.g., facilities involving the justice system). This approach aims to increase flexibility and reduce ambiguity in care housing definitions.
Administration has returned with an updated version of the zoning bylaw amendment for Care Homes in R1 districts. Administration determined that rather than listing every type of care housing model, which was very problematic, the bylaw would focus on two categories: Residential Care and Custodial Care. Based on interpretations of the Mental Health Services Act, administration is also proposing that care providers for those who need assistance would also be placed under the Custodial Care definition of the bylaw. Residential care homes could include hospice, personal care homes,
Martensville Summer Market Cancelled for 2025 Season
Shanine Sealey, Martensville Messenger With deep regret, organizers have announced the cancellation of the 2025 Martensville Summer Market season. Despite growing community support and an increase in customer turnout in recent years, the market was unable to secure enough committed regular vendors to proceed this summer.
Several factors contributed to the shortage of vendors, including personal and professional commitments, as well as some vendors choosing to participate in the newly established Warman market, which is scheduled at the same time. Organizers expressed their gratitude to the vendors who did step forward and attempted to keep the market going.
“The decision is unfortunate, but necessary,” Martensville Summer Market Manager Marjan Petter stated. “So many of you came out to support the market and our customer base had increased significantly over the past couple of years. Thank you to all present and past vendors for all of your support.”
While the Martensville Summer Market will be on pause for 2025, the local entrepreneurs who make it special are still hard at work crafting, baking, growing, and creating. Community members are encouraged to continue supporting them directly through the contact information provided below:
• Petter Farms (Vegetables): Find them at the Warman Thursday Market | petterfarms@gmail.com
• Karen's Kitchen and Crafts (Home-baked goods, food safety certified): Karen's Kitchen & Crafts on Facebook
• Hyper Fixations (Crochet plushies, clay art): Hyper Fixations on Facebook | @ hyper.fixationss on Instagram
• Tri 3D (3D printed goods): tri-3d@proton.me
• Sunset Gourmet Food: gdleite@sasktel.net
• Angie’s Homemade Springrolls: Angie DC Duero on Facebook
The Martensville Summer Market, formerly known as the Martensville Farmers Market, has long been a beloved fixture in the community. Running weekly through the summer months at the Martensville Corner Store parking lot, the market has offered everything from fresh produce and baked goods to handmade crafts and artisan items. A 2023 rebrand to a summer market aimed to better reflect its expanded offerings and the diversity of homebased businesses it supported.
Though 2025 will be quiet for the market, organizers remain hopeful for a revival in future seasons. Stay tuned for updates and new opportunities to support local in Martensville.
child care, group homes for adults with disabilities, and senior group homes. Custodial care homes would be for those involved with the justice system. This type could be looked at in the future if proposed.
Several reports were provided to Council, including from the Martensville Fire Department, and several administration departments within the City of Martensville.
The report from the MFD noted that they have responded to 185 emergency calls from January 1st to May 12th, which is an increase of 37 from last year. During this time, the MFD responded to four overdose incidents, with one fatality occurring within a rural area. Six new recruits that are currently undergoing training were hired.
The Infrastructure and Planning department updated Council on their pothole repairs, street sweeping and dust control, as well as the seasonal maintenance with lagoon discharge and hydrant flushing.
Within the Recreation & Community Services department, it was noted that the Aquatic Centre is slated to open June 1st, with the Spray Park scheduled for the end of May.
Economic Development and Communications noted that there has been business development interest from a variety of people looking for more information on developing a medical clinic, construction business, car wash, storage facility, a transportation-related business and more. Additionally, a review of the Economic Development Business Incentive Bylaw is currently underway in hopes of updating it to better align with current priorities and opportunities.
In Planning and Bylaw Enforcement, an update was provided regarding the agreement with Saskatoon’s SPCA with the boarding and care of found animals. With the recent closure of Paws Republic Centre for Pets, which had been providing temporary support when lost animals were located in the community, the City explored other local options, none of which were feasible due to operational limitations.
Under the SPCA agreement, residents or the City’s part-time Bylaw Officer, who works three days a week, can transport found animals directly to the SPCA. Licensed pets will be returned to owners when possible, while unclaimed animals are held for three days before becoming eligible for adoption. The report noted that the SPCA offers professional care, vaccinations, and sterilization for animals before rehoming. A new FAQ is now available online to help guide residents through the process, and pet licensing reminders are being circulated. For more information about this meeting, or about Martensville City Council, visit www.martensville. ca.
Come out and enjoy a night of Bingo on Thursday, May 22nd at 7:00pm
This is the FINAL Bingo of the season!
Cash Prizes - 50/50 - Concession
Children accompanied by adults are welcome to attend. 3-Up, 6-Up and 9-Up Packages Available! Martensville New Horizon’s Senior Centre Bingo Join us at 106 4th Avenue North!
ABOVE: The Martensville Summer Market, which took place on Saturdays in the parking lot of the Martensville Corner Store throughout the summer, will be cancelled for the 2025 season due to a shortage of vendors.
Group of Companies Announces New Home Hardware Building Centre
Location in Saskatoon
The Zak’s Group of Companies is excited to announce the opening of a new Zak’s Home Hardware Building Centre, coming late 2025 to 820C 51st Street East, Saskatoon; the former site of Peavey Mart.
Rooted in the community since 1986, Zak’s is a locally owned and operated family business led by the Zacharias family. Guided by the mission "We work hard to take care of our family and yours by developing relationships and building our communities", Zak’s continues to grow while maintaining its commitment to local values and personalized service.
“As sad as it is to see a heritage business like Peavey Mart close, we are honoured to carry forward a tradition of community support,” said Wyatt Zacharias, Chief Retail Officer. “We recognize a natural cross-over in product selection and are committed to offering goods and services that support Canadian suppliers, home building, renovation, and family life — including features like a children’s play centre.”
The new Zak’s Home Hardware Building Centre will feature BeautiTone Paint Centre, Home Design Gallery, Housewares & Giftware, Yard & Garden, and Hardware departments, a full-service seasonal Garden Centre, a strong emphasis on Lumber and Building Materials to support local contractors and DIY enthusiasts alike.
Zak’s prides itself on delivering exceptional customer service and will be creating approximately 30 new job opportunities in the Saskatoon area.
With existing locations in Hague, Warman, and Saskatoon (Central Avenue), Zak’s continues to strengthen its presence while living up to its slogan: “Locally Owned with Canadian Heart.”
To Contact Us About Advertising: advertising@martensvillemessenger.ca
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Possible Canada Post Strike May Disrupt Mail and Parcel Delivery
Jocelyn Ottenbreit, Martensville Messenger
More than 55,000 postal workers across Canada may return to the picket lines starting at midnight on Friday, May 23, according to a recent strike notice. If it proceeds, this will mark the second Canada Post strike in six months. The previous 32-day strike, which occurred in November and December, ended after federal intervention, but not before delaying millions of letters and parcels during the busy holiday season.
The current dispute centers on several key issues, including Canada Post’s proposal to hire part-time workers for weekend deliveries, a move the union opposes, as full-time employees currently receive overtime for weekend work.
Other concerns include wages, benefits, and pensions. While a last-minute agreement between the union and the Crown corporation could still prevent a strike, such a resolution appears unlikely.
Delivery of mail and parcels will depend on the nature of the strike. If a full national strike occurs, all mail and parcel delivery across Canada will stop starting Friday. If rotating strikes take place, service interruptions will be localized to affected areas, although nationwide delays may still occur. Exceptions for mail services that will continue during the strike include social assistance cheques and live animals (though no new shipments of live animals will be accepted until the strike concludes).
During the disruption, residents and businesses may consider using alternative courier services. Options include FedEx, Purolator, UPS, DHL, Canpar, Uber and Lyft (which offer parcel delivery in select areas). Please note that these services may be more expensive than Canada Post.
On a local level, in order to avoid delays and ensure your utility bills, property taxes, and other service accounts remain in good standing, the City of Martensville offers several secure payment methods, which include:
• In-person at City Hall during business hours (cash, debit, or cheque)
• Drop-box for cheques—available outside City Hall during evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Online and Telepay – Contact your bank to set up online or phone payments
• Interac e-Transfer® – Send same-day payments to: payments@martensville.ca
• TIPPS – The Tax Installment Payment Plan allows for equalized monthly tax payments (participants are exempt from late penalties)
• Pre-authorized payment plans for utility bills
• Credit card payments via the OptionPay System
For more details on these payment options and instructions for how to use them, visit: https://www.martensville.ca/pages/pay_my_bills2.html. To sign up for E-billing visit: https://mymartensvilleaccount.ca/LinkRegister.aspx
Martensville High School Among Five New Schools to Receive Expanded Mental Health Program
Students at Martensville High School will soon benefit from enhanced mental health supports, thanks to the expansion of the Mental Health Capacity Building (MHCB) program announced on May 14th by the Government of Saskatchewan.
Education Minister Everett Hindley and Mental Health and Addictions Minister Lori Carr unveiled plans to extend the MHCB initiative to five additional schools across the province, including Martensville High School. Other schools selected through the competitive application-based process include Bedford Road Collegiate in Saskatoon, Rossignol High School in Île-à-la-Crosse, Holy Rosary High School in Lloydminster, and Swift Current Comprehensive High School.
Beginning this fall, the program will be active in 24 schools across 19 school divisions, with a goal to expand to all 27 divisions by 2028 as part of Saskatchewan’s Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions.
“The Mental Health Capacity Building program is helping young people learn how to manage their emotions, anxiety and increase awareness of mental health and where they can find additional support,” said Minister Hindley. “We are pleased to expand this program to reach more students and school communities across Saskatchewan.”
The MHCB program equips students with tools to manage stress and emotions, promotes mental wellness, and connects youth to community services when needed.
“We know that early interventions and access to support is important for students and families who are experiencing mental health concerns,” added Minister Carr. “Expanding the Mental Health Capacity Building program delivers on our commitment under the province’s Action Plan for Mental Health and Addictions.”
The MHCB program is a partnership between the Ministries of Education and Health, alongside the Saskatchewan Health Authority. With an additional $1.6 million in funding in the 2025-26 budget, the government’s total annual investment in the program now stands at $4.6 million.
Funded school divisions deliver a blend of mental health promotion, early prevention programming, and capacity-building for educators and support staff. The initiative also helps connect students and families with appropriate resources in their communities.
“By embedding mental health supports directly into our schools, we have the ability to create a culture where students feel safe, supported, and empowered to thrive, not just academically, but emotionally and socially as well." said Colleen Norris, Superintendent of Education with Saskatoon Public Schools.
For more information about the Mental Health Capacity Building program, visit Saskatchewan.ca.
Leave Baby Wildlife Alone
Helping Can Hurt More Than You Think
As the weather warms up and more people spend time outdoors, it is common to spot young animals on their own in the wild. While they may look like they need your help, often the best thing you can do is appreciate them from a distance and leave them alone.
Many animals leave their young alone for long periods of time while they forage for food or to protect them from predators. The mother is often nearby, sometimes even watching.
In fact, interference from humans can be harmful or even fatal to the young animal.
No matter how cute and small, young wildlife are not pets, and it is illegal to take them home. Wild animals may carry infectious diseases, such as rabies and West Nile virus, that can be transmitted to people.
If a young animal has been in the same spot for several hours, is vocal, wet or covered in insects, or the mother is found dead nearby, it's time to ask for advice. If you can see obvious signs of injury or believe the animal has been orphaned, please contact your local conservation officer or the Turn in Poachers and Polluters (TIPP) line at 1-800-667-7561.
Protect what Matters Most: Register your Values at Risk
With the start of the wildfire season, the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) is encouraging residents to take proactive steps to protect their property, environment and community by registering their Values At Risk (VAR).
In wildfire terms, "Values At Risk" refers to the assets and property that could be affected by wildfire, including buildings, cabins, docks and homes.
"By informing the SPSA about your cabin, home, or other significant assets, you will help fire managers prioritize protection efforts," SPSA President and Fire Commissioner Marlo Pritchard said. "This information will also help improve response strategies and increase the likelihood of safeguarding what matters most to you."
To register a VAR, complete the online Values at Risk Form located at https:// www.saskpublicsafety.ca/at-home/values-at-risk.
SPSA staff are available to guide residents through the submission process. All information provided will remain confidential and will only be used by fire managers for wildfire management purposes.
"Registering your Values At Risk is an important step toward protecting them, but it does not guarantee the SPSA will be able to protect your values from wildfire," Pritchard said. "However, when the SPSA is informed about Values At Risk and can put protection units like sprinklers in place, it is very successful in saving those values."
The SPSA encourages all residents to take precautions to mitigate the risk of wildfire damage. The SPSA has FireSmart resources available on its website at saskpublicsafety.ca.
Established in 2017, the SPSA is a treasury board Crown corporation responsible for wildfire management, emergency management, Sask911, SaskAlert, the Civic Addressing Registry, the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program and fire safety.
Saskatchewan Exports Continue to Reach New Markets in 2024
Provincial Exports Achieved the Third Highest Year on Record, Valued at $45.4 Billion in 2024
On May 20th, the Government of Saskatchewan and the Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership (STEP) released the province's annual State of Trade report. The report, which outlines provincial trade highlights for 2024, reveals that it was the thirdhighest export year for Saskatchewan, with the total value of exports reaching $45.4 billion.
"Saskatchewan is providing much needed certainty as we move through a time of global trade shifts," Trade and Export Development Minister Warren Kaeding said. "Our exporters, manufacturers, and producers remain suppliers of choice as we bring food and energy security to countries around the world. This creates jobs, economic opportunities and a high standard of living for all who call our province home."
Uranium saw impressive growth, with the value of exports increasing by 50 per cent. Total uranium exports reached $2.8 billion, surpassing the Saskatchewan Growth Plan target of $2 billion. Potash also reached a record volume of exports, totaling 22,807,489 metric tonnes.
Saskatchewan continues to be an exporter of choice internationally. Goods from the province reached 161 countries in 2024. India became the province's thirdlargest export market behind the U.S. and China, with the value of exports to the country increasing by 12.2 per cent in 2024.
"Amid the unprecedented trade uncertainties in 2024, Saskatchewan demonstrated resilience and growth across key sectors, with many major commodities maintaining or increasing their volumes," STEP Interim CEO Angela Krauss said. "The province's export foundation remains strong, and we are committed to diversifying our markets and strengthening essential trade relationships."
According to the report, the volumes of most major exports maintained or increased from 2023 levels. In terms of volume, exports of canola seed increased 25 per cent from 2023 to 2024. Canola meal exports increased 14 per cent in volume from 2023 to 2024. The top export products for the province include crude petroleum oil, potash, canola seeds and oil, wheat, uranium, lentils and dried peas.
The provincial economy continues to see substantial growth. In 2007, the value of Saskatchewan exports was $19.8 billion, which has since climbed to nearly $50 billion on average over the past three years.
STEP is a membership driven, government/industry partnership, designed to promote the growth of Saskatchewan's export industry.
Statistics Canada's latest GDP numbers indicate that Saskatchewan's 2024 real GDP reached an all-time high of $80.5 billion, increasing by $2.6 billion, or 3.4 per cent from 2023. This places Saskatchewan second in the nation for real GDP growth and above the national average of 1.6 per cent.
For more information on opportunities in Saskatchewan, visit: investSK.ca.
Letter to the Editor
Saskatchewan RCMP Charge
Male with Kidnapping Following Dangerous Person Alert
On May 15, 2025 at approximately 11:00 p.m., Loon Lake RCMP received a report that a woman was potentially taken against her will on Island Lake First Nation (Ministikwan).
Officers responded immediately. Investigation determined a male entered a residence with a firearm. The firearm was not discharged. The male left the residence with a female. Initial investigation determined the male and female to be travelling in a vehicle. Officers from multiple Saskatchewan RCMP units searched the area and could not locate the male and the female. Officers continued to make extensive patrols in the surrounding area.
As a result of continued investigation, Saskatchewan RCMP issued a dangerous person alert at 10:25 a.m. to Island Lake First Nation and surrounding areas.
At approximately 12:40 p.m., Saskatchewan RCMP located the suspect vehicle off Highway #699, between Island Lake First Nation and Loon Lake. Investigation determined the vehicle had previously been reported as stolen out of Canoe Narrows. The vehicle had no occupants. Saskatchewan RCMP Police Dog Services and Remotely Piloted Aircraft System were engaged to assist in the search for the male and female in a nearby wooded area.
The male was located and arrested. The female was located shortly after. She was assessed by EMS for injuries described as non-life-threatening in nature. Officers located and seized an airsoft handgun and an inoperable firearm.
Saskatchewan RCMP then canceled the dangerous person emergency alert.
As a result of further investigation, 24-year-old Mike Bouvier from Canoe Narrows, SK is charged with; one count, kidnapping with a firearm, Section 279(1.1), Criminal Code; one count, pointing a firearm, Section 87(1), Criminal Code; one count, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, Section 88(1), Criminal Code; one count, uttering threats, Section 264.1(1)(a), Criminal Code; one count, assault, Section 266, Criminal Code; one count, unauthorized possession of a firearm, Section 91(1), Criminal Code; and one count, theft of motor vehicle, Section 333.1, Criminal Code.
Mike Bouvier is scheduled to appear in Meadow Lake Provincial Court on May 20, 2025 (Information #90564138).
Multiple RCMP detachments, along with Saskatchewan RCMP’s North Battleford Provincial General Investigation Section, Meadow Lake Combined Traffic Services Saskatchewan, Meadow Lake Police Dog Services, and the Saskatchewan RCMP Critical Incident Response Team assisted in this investigation.
POLICE BEAT
RCMP Investigating Fatal Highway 11 Incident Near MacDowall
At approximately 2:15 a.m. on May 20, 2025, Prince Albert RCMP responded to a report of a deceased individual on Highway #11, just south of the MacDowall turnoff.
Upon arrival, officers located a deceased adult male. The individual has not yet been formally identified, so no further details are being released at this time.
Preliminary investigation suggests the man sustained injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle. It is believed the incident occurred in the southbound lanes of the highway.
The Saskatchewan RCMP’s Prince Albert General Investigation Section (GIS) has taken over the investigation and is actively working to identify and locate the vehicle involved. Investigators believe the vehicle is a black Jeep, likely with damage to the front end.
Police are asking for the public’s help. Specifically, they are seeking surveillance or dashcam footage from Highway #11, south of MacDowall, between midnight and 2:15 a.m. on May 20. They are also looking for any witnesses or individuals who were travelling in the area during that timeframe and anyone who may have information about the whereabouts of a damaged black Jeep
If you have information or footage, please contact the RCMP General Investigation Section at 310-RCMP.
Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
The southbound lanes of Highway #11 were temporarily closed during the initial investigation, but were opened to traffic later that day
Saskatchewan RCMP Asks for Public Help Identifying Suspect in Sexual Offence Investigation
Saskatchewan RCMP’s General Investigation Section continues to investigate a report of a sexual offence at a business south of Saskatoon.
As a result of ongoing investigation, an updated sketch of the male suspect has been completed by a Saskatchewan RCMP forensic sketch artist.
Saskatchewan RCMP continue to investigate. Anyone with information about the incident, or who recognizes the sketch of the suspect, is asked to contact Saskatchewan RCMP by dialling 310RCMP. Information can also be submitted anonymously by contacting Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.saskcrimestoppers.com.
