Where Water, Wellness & Communities Meet
Meet the inspiring 2025 District Advisory Committee Stewardship Award winners who are leading the way in protecting Saskatchewan’s water resources.
Learn how using fertilizer inhibitors can reduce nitrogen loss, enhance efficiency, and support sustainability on the farm. IN THIS ISSUE:
NOVEMBER 2025
Nov. 12 - Nitrogen Management Workshop, Cut Knife
Nov. 13 - Cover Crops Workshop, Conquest
Nov. 14 - Nitrogen Management Workshop, Archerwill
Nov. 15 - Cover Crops Workshop, Willowbrook
Nov. 17 - Nitrogen Management Workshop, Drake
Nov. 18 - Cover Crops Workshop, Yellowgrass
Nov. 18 - Climate Change Adaptation Planning Meeting, Swift Current
Nov. 19 - Nitrogen Management Workshop, Gravelbourg
Nov. 19 - Climate Change Adaptation Planning Meeting, Assiniboia
Nov. 20 - Cover Crops Workshop, Maple Creek
Nov. 20 - Northeast District Advisory Committee Meeting, Kamsack
Nov. 24-29 - Canadian Western Agribition, Evraz Place’s International Trade Centre, Regina
DECEMBER 2025
Dec. 1-3 - Irrigation Saskatchewan Conference, TCU Place, Saskatoon
Dec. 4 - Southwest District Advisory Committee Meeting, Assiniboia
A LOOK INTO NITROGEN INHIBITORS FOR IMPROVED FERTILIZER USE EFFICIENCY
As agronomists and farmers look for a more sustainable practice to manage nutrients on their farms, they find themselves turning towards using fertilizer inhibitors. Using these fertilizer inhibitors helps to improve fertilizer efficiency as well as protect the environment.
What Are Fertilizer Inhibitors?
Inhibitors are additives are mixed with fertilizer, commonly used with urea. The goal when using an inhibitor is to slow down the chemical process that happens in the soil to reduce nitrogen loss. The two main types are urease and nitrification inhibitors.
• Urease Inhibitors help prevent the rapid breakdown of urea into ammonia. When urea breaks down into ammonia it gasses off into the atmosphere through volatilization. Using a urease inhibitor helps to keep the nitrogen (urea) in the soil longer, especially under dry or even windy weather conditions.
• Nitrification inhibitors slow down the change between ammonium to nitrate which in turn slows down and reduces the risk of leaching.
Do Inhibitors Really Make a Difference?
Yes, by using an inhibitor, you are extending the availability of nitrogen to crops, resulting in possible higher yields as well as giving you more flexibility in your fertilizer timing. They may cost a bit more upfront, but they often pay for themselves through yield and the overall quality of the crop as well as a reduction in fertilizer waste.
Inhibitors are no longer “just another product” they are thoroughly researched to help improve fertilizer use efficiency and helping to protect our environment.
The use of dual inhibitors or using a nitrification and a urease inhibitor together is an eligible project through SAW’s SWEAP (Saskatchewan Watersheds Environmental Agriculture Program) Nitrogen Management Beneficial Management Practice program. Using inhibitors must be a new practice for the grower OR used on acres where inhibitors have not been used prior to 2022 and supported by a licensed Professional Agrologist or Certified Crop Advisor.
Funding for SWEAP is provided by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada through the Agriculture Climate Solutions – On-Farm Climate Action Fund (OFCAF).
Loading fertilizer from the semi into the air drill for seeding in
THREAT OF AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES DUE TO CLIMATE VARIABILITY
Climate extremes and variability are intensifying the threat of aquatic invasive species (AIS) in Saskatchewan by altering water temperatures, hydrological cycles, and ecosystem dynamics. Warmer waters and longer ice-free seasons create more favorable conditions for invasive species such as zebra mussels, quagga mussels, and Prussian carp to establish and spread. These species thrive in a wide range of environmental conditions and often outcompete native species for food and habitat.
Climate-driven changes in precipitation and runoff patterns also affect the connectivity between water bodies, increasing the likelihood of AIS dispersal. Flooding events can transport invasive species to new lakes and rivers, while droughts may concentrate populations in smaller areas, intensifying their ecological impact. Invasive mussels, which have not yet been detected in Saskatchewan but pose a high risk, can clog water infrastructure, degrade water quality, and disrupt aquatic food webs. Their spread is facilitated by human activity, especially through watercraft that are not properly cleaned, drained, and dried.
To combat these risks, Saskatchewan has implemented a comprehensive Aquatic Invasive Species Strategy that includes early detection, rapid response, and public education. Monitoring programs, such as eDNA testing for Prussian carp and inspections of watercraft, are key components of the province’s defense. In 2024 alone, over 3,500 watercraft inspections were conducted, and invasive plants like flowering rush were removed from more than 100 km of waterways. Despite these efforts, climate variability continues to complicate AIS management, underscoring the need for adaptive strategies and regional collaboration to protect Saskatchewan’s aquatic ecosystems.
Watch for the release of our upcoming video on the Climate Variability and Aquatic Invasive Species. This project was undertaken with the financial support of the Government of Canada. Funding was provided through the Environmental Damages Fund’s Climate Action and Awareness Fund, administered by Environment and Climate Change Canada. For any inquiries, please contact ccap@saskwatersheds.ca for more information.
2025 SAW PROVINCIAL WATERSHED CONFERENCE A SUCCESS!
The 2025 Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds (SAW) Conference, held under the theme “From Source to Stewardship: Where Water, Wellness and Communities Meet,” was a resounding success, bringing together a diverse group of stakeholders committed to protecting Saskatchewan’s water resources. Hosted at the Wascana Country Club in Regina, the two-day event featured a dynamic lineup of speakers, including Indigenous leaders, agricultural experts, and mental health advocates. Highlights included Steven Wiig’s presentation on land-based education and food forests at Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, Cynthia Beck’s exploration of the link between farm productivity and wellbeing, and Katherine Finn’s insights on connecting people, place, and practice through the Bridge to Land Water Sky Project.
The conference emphasized the intersection of agriculture stewardship, climate resilience, and Traditional Knowledge. Sessions covered topics such as regenerative agriculture, building Indigenous relationships, and the social and economic value of wetlands and natural infrastructure. Attendees also learned about funding opportunities through the Saskatchewan Watershed Environmental Agriculture Program (SWEAP) which has already distributed over $28 million to support sustainable farming practices. The event’s inclusive approach was evident in its focus on building partnerships with Indigenous communities and addressing mental health in agriculture, reinforcing the importance of watershed management on the land.
A celebratory banquet at the Delta Hotel capped off the conference, featuring keynote speaker Mark Fisher, President of the Canada Water Agency. Three stewardship award presentations were presented and Brooklyn Moore, winner of the 2025 Caring for Our Watershed contest, inspired attendees with her initiative to combat food waste through the use of community fridges. With over 9 hours of programming, networking, and recognition, the 18th Annual SAW Conference not only showcased innovative solutions but also strengthened the province’s commitment to sustainable water stewardship and community well-being.
Jessica Theriault (Mosaic), Mark Fisher (Canada Water Agency), Bridget Andrews (SAW), Theresa Mann (Mosaic) at the 2025 SAW Banquet.
THANK YOU TO OUR 2025 SAW CONFERENCE SPONSORS
Your generous support of the 2025 SAW Conference played a key role in making this event a success and helping us bring together watershed professionals, community members, and stakeholders from across Canada committed to protecting Saskatchewan’s water resources.
Thank you for helping us build a stronger future for Saskatchewan’s watersheds.
SAW CELEBRATES DISTRICT ADVISORY COMMITTEE STEWARDSHIP AWARD RECIPIENTS
The Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds (SAW) is proud to present the 2025 Watershed District Stewardship Awards at the From Source to Stewardship Conference. These awards celebrate individuals, groups, organizations, businesses, or agencies from each watershed district who have shown outstanding leadership and commitment to protecting and enhancing Saskatchewan’s watersheds. Winners are recognized for a variety of achievements, from improving water quality and advancing stewardship activities to promoting SAW initiatives and supporting watershed education in their communities.
Nominees can be residents, landowners, or organizations with significant operations in Saskatchewan who have made a meaningful impact on their local watershed. The awards highlight the many ways people across the province are actively
DON OLSON (POSTHUMOUS), Northeast DAC Stewardship Award Recipient
For more than three decades, Don Olson dedicated his life to public service, environmental stewardship, and community building in Saskatchewan. A long-time councillor and mayor for the Town of Sturgis, Don believed deeply in the power of local action and collaboration. His commitment to protecting natural resources began early in his career as a Habitat Specialist with Ducks Unlimited Canada, where he developed a lifelong respect for wetlands and wildlife.
Don’s leadership and vision were central to the creation of the Assiniboine Watershed Stewardship Association (AWSA). Following the devastating 1995 floods, he represented Saskatchewan in the Upper Assiniboine River Basin Study, laying the groundwork for AWSA’s establishment in 2007. As the inaugural Chair of the Board, Don guided the organization through its early years, overseeing hundreds of projects focused on well decommissioning, aquifer management, shoreline stabilization, habitat enhancement, and wetland restoration.
A practical visionary, Don championed programs that combined environmental benefit with community value. He played a key role in creating the Source Water and Urban Municipality Projects (SWAUMP) Fund and supported the development of the ALUS program, helping producers enhance and protect natural habitats on agricultural lands.
caring for water resources and inspiring others to do the same.
Each District Advisory Committee (DAC) reviews nominations from their region and selects one nominee to submit to SAW. Nomination forms include the reasons for the selection and supporting information about the nominee’s contributions, ensuring that every award recipient reflects excellence in watershed stewardship.
Through these awards, SAW shines a spotlight on the dedication, collaboration, and passion of people working to protect Saskatchewan’s waters. The 2025 recipients exemplify how local leadership and commitment can make a real difference for the environment and for communities across the province.
Recognized with the 2014 Council of the Federation Excellence in Water Stewardship Award and the 2016 Saskatchewan Municipal Award for Regional Cooperation, Don’s “get ’er done” attitude, kindness, and commitment to people and the environment continue to inspire. His legacy endures through the AWSA and the communities he cared for, leaving a lasting impact on Saskatchewan’s water resources.
WAYNE HYDE , Northwest DAC Stewardship Award Recipient
Wayne Hyde has spent his life understanding and protecting Saskatchewan’s waters. After a 36-year career with the Water Survey of Canada, where he oversaw the collection and interpretation of critical hydrological data, Wayne retired in 2007 and made his permanent home at Emma Lake. Retirement only deepened his commitment to environmental stewardship, and in 2009 he joined the District of Lakeland Environmental Advisory Committee, where his expertise helped shape one of Saskatchewan’s most successful community-led water monitoring programs.
When a Saskatchewan Watershed Authority report highlighted the need for continued monitoring, Wayne designed a longterm water quality program tailored to local lakes. In 2011, with District Council support, he launched a program tracking temperature, oxygen, pH, and nutrient levels on Anglin, Christopher, Emma, and McPhee Lakes. Volunteers assist, providing essential data to guide management decisions.
Wayne has also contributed to educational materials, shoreline stewardship guides, and best management practices, helped develop an Environmental Management Plan in partnership with the University of Saskatchewan, and represented the
CHARLES (CHUCK) DESCHAMPS,
Southeast DAC Stewardship Award Recipient
For more than 34 years, Chuck Deschamps has been a leader in wetland conservation and sustainable land management across the Prairie provinces. As a Policy and Resource Specialist with Ducks Unlimited Canada, Chuck combined his scientific training—an Honours B.Sc. in Wildlife Management from the University of Guelph— with a passion for collaboration, education, and practical stewardship.
Chuck has focused on conserving, restoring, and managing prairie wetlands and upland habitats, working directly with landowners, farmers, and ranchers on tens of thousands of acres to implement conservation farming practices and protect native prairie and wetland areas. He has been instrumental in advancing watershed planning in Saskatchewan through partnerships with SAW, serving as a speaker at conferences and meetings, and representing Ducks Unlimited on technical and advisory committees including the SEDAC. He also served as the wetland specialist for the creation of Carrot River Watershed Stewards.
Beyond hands-on conservation, Chuck has raised awareness of wetlands’ critical roles in biodiversity, habitat provision, flood mitigation, water purification, and carbon storage. His
District on the North Saskatchewan River Basin Council.
In 2018, he helped launch the Emma Lake Environmental Stewardship Study, a collaboration addressing water transparency, algae growth, and shoreline development.
Wayne’s dedication, curiosity, and collaborative spirit have made him a cornerstone of water stewardship in the Lakeland region.
leadership in policy, education, and on-the-ground action has strengthened relationships among government agencies, NGOs, producers, and other stakeholders across Saskatchewan.
Chuck’s decades of dedication have left an enduring mark on the province’s landscape, ensuring wetlands remain a central part of Saskatchewan’s environmental future and inspiring others to follow in his footsteps.
PREVENTING THE SPREAD OF SPINY WATERFLEAS IN WATERBODIES
PLANTING NATIVE TREE SPECIES IN SASKATCHEWAN
When planning to plant trees, such as in an ecological buffer, thorough research should be done to ensure the trees you are planting will not only survive but thrive. With numerous tree species available, selecting the right tree for your space can be an intimidating task. However, it is typically recommended that native plant species be chosen. Not only do native trees improve air quality and support wildlife, they are also adapted to growing conditions within Saskatchewan, meaning they are more likely to survive and require less maintenance.
Spiny Waterfleas are a highly invasive zooplankton species that pose a serious threat to freshwater ecosystems across Canada, including Saskatchewan. These tiny crustaceans reproduce rapidly and feed aggressively on native plankton, disrupting food chains and reducing the food supply for young fish. Once introduced into a lake or river, spiny water fleas are nearly impossible to eliminate, making prevention the most effective strategy for protecting aquatic biodiversity and recreational fisheries.
The primary way Spiny Waterfleas spread is by contaminated watercraft, fishing gear, and bait buckets. To prevent their introduction, boaters and anglers should follow the “Clean, Drain, Dry” protocol every time they move between waterbodies. This means removing all visible plants and animals, draining water from bilges and live wells, and allowing equipment to dry thoroughly before reuse. Special attention should be paid to fishing lines and nets, as spiny water fleas can cling to fine surfaces and remain unnoticed.
Public awareness and vigilance are key to stopping the spread. Saskatchewan’s Watercraft Inspection Program plays a vital role by checking boats at high-risk entry points and educating the public about invasive species. By taking simple precautions and staying informed, everyone can contribute to preserving the health of Saskatchewan’s lakes and rivers for generations to come.
Growing conditions, or ecological factors, considered when choosing the right tree for your space include soil, moisture, light, and climate. Soil is the ground in which the tree grows and has many properties, with the most important for trees being structure, texture, and pH. Structure refers to the aggregation of soil particles, texture refers to the proportion of sand, silt, and clay, and pH refers to whether the soil is acidic or alkaline. These three properties affect root growth, water retention, and nutrient availability. Moisture is another major influence and is the amount of water available to the tree, which includes precipitation and soil moisture. Although precipitation is necessary, soil moisture controls how much water is available to plants and trees. Soil moisture depends on the texture of the soil, where soils containing clay are better at retaining moisture than sandy soils, where water quickly drains through. Light and climate are other key factors. Light is necessary for photosynthesis, which converts sunlight into usable energy, and climate governs temperature extremes, which can stress trees and compromise their growth.
There are many trees native to Saskatchewan, each adapted to their own unique growing conditions. Some commonly grown native tree species of Saskatchewan that soon-to-be planters are recommended include species such as Manitoba maple, white spruce, green ash, balsam poplar, trembling aspen, and plains cottonwood.
SAW has funding available for landowners who would like to install eco-buffer shelterbelts within the North Saskatchewan River Watershed! If you are interested in the program, please contact info@saskwatersheds.ca or 306-541-9902 for more information about the program and eligibility requirements.
Spiny Waterflea (Bythotrephes longimanus). Source: Invasive Species Centre - Gary Montz, Bugwood.org
SHELTERBELTS MATTER IN SASKATCHEWAN
Across the wide-open plains of Saskatchewan, the sight of trees lining a field or farmyard isn’t just beautiful — it’s practical. Shelterbelts or windbreaks, have been protecting prairie farmland for over a century. A shelterbelt is a strategically planted row (or several rows) of trees and shrubs designed to slow the wind, reduce soil erosion, and protect crops, livestock, and buildings. They can be found along field edges, around farmyards, or even encircling communities.
Why Shelterbelts Matter
1. Soil Protection - Saskatchewan’s rich topsoil is its most valuable resource. But the province’s strong winds can strip away unprotected topsoil in just a few storms. Shelterbelts reduce wind speed for hundreds of metres downwind, dramatically cutting soil erosion and preserving fertility.
2. Moisture Conservation - By reducing wind evaporation, shelterbelts help retain soil moisture, which is critical during dry years. Research shows that fields protected by shelterbelts often maintain higher soil moisture levels and improved crop performance.
3. Biodiversity Boost - Shelterbelts create vital habitat for birds, pollinators, and beneficial insects. Species like lady beetles and native bees thrive in these zones — offering natural pest control and improved pollination for nearby crops.
4. Carbon Capture and Climate Benefits - Trees in shelterbelts store carbon, helping offset farm emissions.
As climate change brings more frequent droughts and extreme weather, shelterbelts act as a natural climate adaptation tool, stabilizing microclimates and protecting infrastructure.
5. Livestock Comfort and Efficiency - In winter, shelterbelts reduce wind chill for cattle, meaning less feed is required to maintain body temperature. In summer, they offer shade and reduce heat stress — improving overall animal welfare and productivity.
How You Can Get Involved
• Plan your shelterbelt using a diverse species mix of trees suited to your soil and eco region.
• Access seedlings: Several nurseries in Saskatchewan supply native and hardy species suited for windbreaks. SAW’s Tree For Life Program is their annual fundraiser launching each February.
• Think long-term: Shelterbelts take time to mature, but the rewards — for your land, livestock, and legacy — last generations.
The ALUS -SAW Carrot River and Wascana Upper Qu’Appelle Taking Responsibility communities help producers reestablish shelterbelts through the 2 Billion Trees Program to re-establish trees on the landscape.
WAKE BOARDS & THE EROSION OF LAKE SHORELINES
Wake boats — designed to create large, surfable waves — have surged in popularity across North American lakes. While they offer thrilling recreation, their environmental footprint is becoming increasingly hard to ignore. From shoreline erosion to aquatic ecosystem disruption, wake boats are reshaping not just the water—but the land around it.
Wake boats are engineered to displace large volumes of water. They use ballast systems to increase weight and hull designs that amplify wave production. These waves, often stronger than natural wind-driven ones, crash against shorelines with force that rivals storm surges.
In smaller lakes or narrow bays, the wakes generated by these boats can account for up to 90% of total wave energy. This concentrated energy accelerates erosion, washing away soil, uprooting vegetation, and destabilizing the shoreline. Over time, this leads to:
• Loss of land and trees
• Increased sedimentation in the lake
• Damage to docks and waterfront infrastructure
Wake-induced turbulence stirs up lake beds, resuspending sediments and nutrients that degrade water quality. This can:
• Smother aquatic plant
• Reduce oxygen levels
• Harm fish spawning grounds
• Displace birds and other shoreline wildlife
The rise of wake boating has sparked heated debates. Some residents advocate for bans or restrictions, citing environmental degradation and safety concerns. Others debate for shared use and better education. Regulatory bodies like Transport Canada have begun considering localized bans under Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations, but enforcement remains complex. Solutions include:
• Designating low-wake zones
• Enforcing minimum distance-from-shore rules
• Promoting alternative watercraft like kayaking or electric boats
• Educating boaters on wake etiquette and environmental impact
Wake boats offer undeniable fun. As lakes become battlegrounds between recreation and preservation, communities must weigh short-term thrills against long-term sustainability. The wake we ride today could shape the shoreline of tomorrow.
SUPPORTING HEALTHY FISH POPULATIONS WITH SPAWNING RIFFLES
Spawning riffles are one of the most effective tools for restoring fish habitat in rivers and streams. These shallow, fast-flowing sections of water are carefully constructed using clean, well-sorted gravel designed to mimic natural spawning conditions for species such as trout, salmon, and walleye. By improving both the physical habitat and water quality, spawning riffles support healthier fish populations and help sustain biodiversity in our waterways.
The construction of a spawning riffle involves adding appropriately sized rock and gravel to create a gentle slope that facilitates water movement and oxygen exchange. This higher flow environment prevents fine sediments from settling, ensuring that eggs receive the oxygen they need to develop successfully. Proper oxygenation is vital for egg survival, as stagnant or silted environments can suffocate developing embryos.
In addition, riffles increase habitat diversity within a stream, benefiting aquatic insects and other organisms that form the critical food base for fish. These areas provide refuge and feeding opportunities for juvenile fish, supporting multiple life stages and improving overall ecosystem resilience.
Beyond fisheries benefits, spawning riffles contribute to water quality improvement by promoting natural filtration and stabilizing streambeds, reducing erosion and sediment transport downstream. They also help moderate streamflow during high water events, contributing to flood control and enhanced habitat complexity.
With funding provided by Fisheries and Oceans Canada for the 2025 fiscal year, SAW will implement a spawning riffle in the Milk River Watershed.
Spawning Riffle for Plains Sucker at Pine Cree Regional Park
WELCOME TO THE TEAM
BAILEY MACKIE , AGRI-ENVIRONMENTAL DATA & PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR
Hello! My name is Bailey Mackie, and I started working with SAW near the beginning of October as the new Agri-Environmental Data & Program Administrator. I grew up in Moose Jaw, SK and received a diploma in Business from Saskatchewan Polytechnic. I continued my education at the University of Regina where I graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration. I have previous administrative and payroll experience. I am excited to join the SAW team!
In my free time I enjoy baking, golfing, coaching softball, and spending time with friends and family.
OFFICE LOCATIONS
Our office locations are open Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM (closed 12 PM - 1 PM).
HEAD OFFICE
300B - 99 Diefenbaker Dr., Moose Jaw, SK
SOUTHWEST DISTRICT OFFICE
1 Airport Road, Swift Current, SK
MAILING ADDRESS
Box 1177, Moose Jaw, SK, S6H 4P9
