Enbridge’s proposed Seven Stars Energy Project passed a major hurdle after the Rural Municipality (RM) of Weyburn removed the 45-metre height restriction on wind turbines. During their regular meeting on May 7, council gave second and third reading to the bylaw amendment.
However, RM of Weyburn Reeve Bud Grohn told SaskToday, “The process is not finished.”
In a prepared statement on May 8, Reeve Grohn said, “I want to make it clear that I am not against projects such as Enbridge’s Seven Stars Wind Turbine Facility but as Reeve of the Weyburn RM, it is my duty to ensure that due process is done. Due process holds legislators to the fact that they must not be unfair to the people. As Reeve, I am required
to represent the ratepayers of the RM of Weyburn, not the City of Weyburn, not the Weyburn Chamber of Commerce and not the Economic Development Board. I was elected to represent and act in the best interests of the ratepayers of the RM of Weyburn. I will do my best to ensure the proper procedure and processes are completed in this proposed project regardless of opposition. It is my duty.”
Enbridge welcomed the bylaw amendment, saying it now aligns with bylaws in other Saskatchewan jurisdictions.
“Having a new bylaw in place is one step in a robust public evaluation process for the proposed Seven Stars Energy Project that includes development permit applications and provincial environmental review, both of which allow for significant public input and engagement,” Alex McNichol, director
power business development with Enbridge, said in an email on Wednesday.
“During our ongoing engagement with the community, there’s been growing recognition of the need for economic development and investment in the region to diversify the local economy and help create a more vibrant community,” said McNichol.
“As we advance the Seven Stars Project, we will work with the RMs and City of Weyburn, as well as continuing to engage in respectful dialogue with area residents with the objective of investing more than $500 million in this exciting renewable energy project.”
A local grassroots group calling itself No Weyburn Windmills voiced strong opposition to the wind turbines, citing concerns about environmental degradation, wildlife impacts, and potential health risks.
A public hearing was held on April 29 after council gave the bylaw amendments first reading on April 4.
The City of Weyburn council formally supported the $500 million Seven Stars Energy Wind Project during their regular council meeting on April 28.
The wind energy project, set to be built in the RMs of Weyburn and Griffin, is expected to bring substantial long-term economic and social benefits to the region. The 200-megawatt (MW) development will operate over a 30-year lifespan, generating millions in annual tax revenue for local municipalities.
Construction is expected to begin in 2026 and wrap up in 2027. Enbridge estimates the project will employ an average of 100 workers during that period, with a strong emphasis on local hiring. Labour spending alone is projected at $75 million.
E. Bourassa and Sons received the WEYBEX Community Involvement and Business of the Year awards from the Weyburn Chamber on May 9.
Photo courtesy of Impact
Community News
Holy Family appoints Britany Burnett as new CFO
Sara Parks SaskToday.ca
The Holy Family Roman Catholic Separate School Division has appointed Britany Burnett as chief financial officer, effective July 2.
Burnett brings to the role a wealth of financial expertise. She holds multiple professional designations, including chartered professional accountant (CPA) and certified general accountant (CGA), along with a production accounting certificate. Her academic credentials also include a bachelor of business administration with a major in accounting and a diploma in accounting.
Grace United Church
Most recently serving as partner at Doane Grant Thornton LLP, Burnett has built a strong foundation in financial analysis, reporting, operational oversight, and Canadian Public Sector Accounting Standards.
“I am truly honoured and excited to step into the role of CFO for the Holy Family School Division. Supporting edu -
cation through sound financial leadership is a privilege, and I am eager to collaborate with the incredible team here to ensure lasting success for our students, colleagues, and community,” said Burnett in a prepared statement.
“With her amassed and diversified training, tremendous experience in public accounting and outgoing and endearing personality, Britany will be a wonderful addition to our divisional team,” said Ken Sampson, Director of Education, Holy Family R.C.S.S.D, in a media release.
The vision statement for the Holy Family Romanc Catholic Seperate School Division is: “To prepare our students to be successful in the economies of the 21st century guided by Catholic values and principles.”
Another vision for the school division is: “To provide relevant, global, high Early Learning –Grade 12 Catholic education to children in the community.”
Weyburn Police respond to assault, fraud reports
The Weyburn Police Service responded to 108 calls for service during the week of May 5- 12, 2025.
Notable incidents during the week include:
Well Being/Mental Health calls: Police responded to 11 of these occurrences over the week. One individual was transported for further care, while all other incidents were resolved with no other action required.
Assault, Assault with weapon and mischief under $5,000: In the morning hours of May 5, police responded to a residence for a domestic disturbance. Upon arrival and through an investigation, one female youth was charged with mischief and assault
with a weapon. An adult male was charged with assault. Both were placed on conditions and released for a later court appearance.
Fraud Over $5,000: Police received a report of an adult female being scammed online. Theinvestigation is ongoing. Police want to encourage people to get in touch with them if they are ever being asked to send money online. These could be relationship scams, lottery scams, job offers or real estate/rental scams as well as countless others. The key thing to remember is to call police if you are ever unsure.
Impaired Operation: May 6: Police observed a dirt bike driving on Fourth
Fax: 306-731-3610 vfarc@live.ca Versa Frame Inc.
Street (dirt bikes are not allowed to drive within city limits), and the drive was also not wearing a helmet. The suspect stopped at a local food establishment and was observed going inside. The police approached the individual and it was found that he was also impaired by alcohol. He was arrested and transported to WPS. The adult male was charged with impaired over .08, breach of condition, no alcohol and dirt bike was towed from the scene. He was released for a later court date.
May 9: Police observed a vehicle leaving a local drinking establishment. A traffic stop was initiated to check for license, registration and sobriety. Police
could smell alcohol on the male subject. An impaired investigation was done, and it was found the adult male was over the legal limit. He was charged accordingly and released for a later court appearance.
Sexual Assault: Police received a complaint of a sexual assault involving an adult male and another party. The investigation was completed and the male was charged with one count of sexual assault and two breaches of a probation order. He will appear in court at a later time.
Motor Vehicle accidents: Police responded to numerous accidents over the week, and tickets of driving without due care and attention given out on
two separate occasions. These accidents are very preventable and drivers really need to be aware of their surroundings and pay attention to what is in front of them.
Domestic Disturbances: Police responded to several domestic disturbances throughout the week. The matters were resolved peacefully at the time with no charges.
With the warmer weather and windows open, police are receiving multiple noise complaints. Warnings and tickets were given out, depending on the situation. *Anyone with information regarding any one of these matters, or any other matter of a criminal nature, is encouraged to contact the Weyburn Police Service at (306) 8483250, the local RCMP Detachment at 310-RCMP (7267), or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
MLA Mike Weger and his youngest daughter, Abigail, decorated Smile Cookies in support of the Weyburn and District Hospital Foundation Inc.
Photo – Courtesy MLA Mike Weger/Facebook
Britany Burnett
WEYBEX awards celebrate local businesses
ICE & INK Beauty Bar - New and Expanded Business
The 2025 Weybex Awards lit up McKenna Hall on May 9 as the community came together to recognize the outstanding businesses that make Weyburn thrive. Hosted by the Weyburn Chamber of Commerce, the evening featured six awards honoring achievements across a wide range of categories—from promising new ventures to long-established pillars of the business community.
Winners included:
Business of the Year:
E. Bourassa & Sons
New and Expanded Business:
ICE & INK Beauty Bar Golden Service Award:
Minard’s Leisure World Community Involvement:
E. Bourassa & Sons
Leadership Excellence:
Dawn Gutzke
Business Hall of Fame:
• John Hulbert
Construction Ltd.
• Quality Plumbing and Heating
• Weyburn Carpet One
Dawn Gutzke of the Family Place accepted the Leadership Excellence Award.
Weyburn man charged with four counts of child luring
SaskToday Staff
A 45-year-old Weyburn man has been charged with four counts of luring a child.
The Saskatchewan Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Unit started an online investigation into child luring in February 2024. Then on July 17, 2024, the Sask. ICE unit executed a search warrant at a home in Weyburn where officers examined and seized electronic devices.
The man appeared in court on May 9 and was released on numerous conditions. He is scheduled to appear in Weyburn Provincial Court on June 24.
The Saskatchewan ICE Unit is comprised
of investigators from the RCMP, Regina Police Service, Saskatoon Police Service, and Prince Albert Police Service.
Their mandate is to investigate crimes involving the abuse and/or exploitation of children on the internet.
• More than $100 million in local economic benefits, including municipal tax revenues, over the project’s expected life.
• Approximately 200 construction jobs will provide significant spin-off benefits to local businesses, like hotels, restaurants, shops and services.
• A communit y benefit fund supporting local needs throughout construction and operation.
• Road repair and upgrades that will enhance local infrastructure—Enbridge-paid.
For more than 75 years, Enbridge has been more than just pipelines in Saskatchewan. We’re your neighbour, dedicated to the communities where we live and work Learn more at enbridge.com/sevenstars
Gene and Susan Minard of Minard’s Leisure World accepted the Golden Service Award.
Karen, Hannah, Nasyah and Maci performed the opening song for “Off the
during a
from St. Michael School will present the musical on Thursday, May 15, with doors opening at 5:45 p.m. A silver collection will be taken, to support future drama productions at St. Michael School.
Ambassador: economic talks must prioritize lifting Trump’s tariffs
Kelly Geraldine Malone,
The Canadian Press
Ottawa’s top diplomat in Washington says talks to negotiate any new deals with the United States will prioritize ending U.S President Donald Trump’s ruinous tariffs on Canadian exports.
Ambassador to the United States Kirsten Hillman said Monday that initial negotiations with Trump’s team will focus on lifting tariffs, as well as specific bilateral issues between Canada and the U.S.
“Dealing with those tariffs, and getting Canada into a position where we are finding stability in the trading relationship, is our number one priority with the Americans,” Hillman said. “There is no discussion to be had with the Americans without that being on the table from Canada’s perspective. That is a starting point for us.”
Trump also said he wants changes to the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement on trade, called CUSMA. Hillman said talks specific to the continental trade pact will take place separately at a later date.
Trump slapped Canada with 25 per cent economywide duties in March, only to partially pause tariffs on imports compliant with CUSMA a few days later. Canada is also being hit with tariffs on steel, aluminum and automobiles.
CUSMA was negotiated during the first Trump administration and some experts say the tariffs were
meant to rattle Canada and Mexico ahead of a mandatory review next year.
Hillman said in the week since Prime Minister Mark Carney met with Trump at the White House, she has spoken with United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and International Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc has been in contact with U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. “The process now will be to get those discussions started in a serious and substantive way,” Hillman said.
The president and prime minister both described the encounter as cordial and productive, clearing the slate for bilateral talks that had been undermined by Trump’s repeated talk of making Canada a U.S. state.
While the president assured reporters in the Oval Office he was still keen on annexing Canada, he softened his tone, saying, “It takes two to tango.”
Hillman said that despite those comments, Trump repeatedly told Carney in public and behind closed doors that it was an honour to speak with him. Canadians were looking to reset the relationship with the White House and Hillman said Trump set the tone for open lines of communication and professionalism.
“They agreed to negotiate a deal that works for both countries,” she said.
Trump said last Tuesday that CUSMA was very effective and is “still very effective.” The president also described it as a “transitional deal” and said he
ASSESSMENT NOTICE 2025 Village of Heward
Notice is hereby given that the Assessment Roll for the Village of Heward for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the Assessor from 10 A.M. to 12 P.M. and 1 P.M. to 3 P.M. on the following days: Tuesday to Thursday, May 15, 2025 to July 16, 2025.
A Bylaw pursuant to Section 214 of the Municipalities Act has been passed and The Assessment Notices have been sent as required.
Any person who wishes to appeal his or her assessment is required to file his or her Notice of Appeal with Nicole Hoskins, The Secretary of The Board of Revision, Box 149, Meota, SK. SOM 1XO by the 16th day of July 2025.
Dated this 7th day of May, 2025.
Z. Slater, Assessor
didn’t know if it was “necessary anymore.”
Carney said Canada is also looking to change some aspects of the continental trade pact. The prime minister pointed to the national security exemptions in trade law that allowed Trump to slam Canada with tariffs — which the president linked to baseless claims about widespread fentanyl trafficking over the Canadian border.
For now, Hillman said, the priority is to work on negotiations between Canada and the United States on bilateral issues like Arctic security, defence and
the northern border that don’t necessarily fit into CUSMA talks.
“The U.S. has been clear with us since the president took office that they are looking to have bilateral discussions with every country,” she said.
“They are engaged with a bilateral discussion with Mexico now. Mexico is in town almost every week talking to the Americans.”
Trump took his trade war to the world in April with “reciprocal” tariffs.
He walked the most significant tariffs back a few hours later, putting in place a 10 per cent universal levy
for 90 days, which he said would give countries time to make a deal.
As other nations race to find ways to deal with the Trump administration, Hillman said she has “every expectation that (Canada) will be able to have the time we need with the administration to deal with our issues.”
“There’s a strong signal from the top level in this country that Canada is a priority,” she said. “That’s not just because the president clearly wants it to be so, but it’s also because we’re their biggest customer by far.”
Rockers”
dress rehearsal, held on May 8. Grade 4 to 6 students
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
National Nursing Week 2025 celebrates the Power of Nurses
The Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) proudly celebrates National Nursing Week, May 12–18, 2025, with the theme The Power of Nurses to Transform Health. This theme honours the expertise, compassion, and impact of the 478,000+ nurses across Canada who are shaping the future of care in every health system and beyond.
Nurses continue to lead health transformation efforts, including care system redesign across the continuum of care and other sectors, and drive bold policy and evidence-informed advocacy.
Nurses also hold untapped economic potential. In 2024, wait times cost Canada’s GDP an estimated $5.2 billion according to the Fraser Institute, reflecting only hours
lost during the average workweek for those waiting for care. By fully leveraging nurses’ knowledge and skills, such as expanding prescribing authority for registered nurses and scaling up nurse practitioner-led clinics, Canada can not only improve access to care but also mitigate these economic losses and unlock billions in potential savings.
“In every community and every sector, nurses are making measurable impacts on the health of Canadians,” said Dr. Kimberly LeBlanc, CNA president. “This week, we celebrate the impact of nurses across Canada and their collective power to transform health for today and tomorrow.”
CNA urges the federal government to maintain strong engagement with the nursing profession and take concrete steps to
implement its platform promises. From pan-Canadian strategies and workforce optimization to mental health supports and workforce retention, nurses bring the evidence, expertise, and proven solutions Canada needs.
“As the largest group of regulated health professionals in Canada, nurses are uniquely positioned to lead system transformation and support governments across the nation to better meet the needs of the people we serve,” said Dr. Valerie Grdisa, CNA CEO. “I encourage all Canadians to join the celebration and to show their appreciation for
nurses through social media, community recognition, and by supporting initiatives that strengthen the nursing profession.”
To learn more about National Nursing Week, to participate in the series of events organized, and download the National Nursing Week toolkit, please visit https://www.cna-aiic.ca/en/news-events/ national-nursing-week. Use the National Nursing Week hashtags to share your involvement in the week. #CNA2025 #NursingWeek2025 #NationalNursingWeek #IND2025 #Nurses2025 #NursingTheme2025 #ThePowerofNurses
Thank youfor your hardworkand dedication!
Sports & Leisure
Pulfer places first as an Xcel Platinum athlete
The Moose Jaw Competition that was held on April 25 was a showcase of talent and dedication, with athletes from various age groups and levels competing. The Airbourne Gymnastics team delivered great performances, making Weyburn proud.
One athlete, in particular, stood out with the performance of her exceptional skills. Mackenzie Pulfer, a 16-year-old gymnast, placed first overall in her age category competing as an Xcel Platinum athlete. Her performance was a testament to her hard work and discipline. The Airbourne Gymnastics Club is incredibly proud of her achievements.
Mackenzie received a gold medal on bars and floor, silver medal on vault, 4th on beam and took the all around title.
In addition to Mackenzie’s success, other team members also received medals for their outstanding performances.
• Sienna Walkeden –
competing in the 12-year -old Gold category received a gold medal on beam, silver medal on bars and floor, and placed second overall.
• Shay Warren – competing in the 12-year-old Gold category received a bronze medal on vault and placed fifth overall.
• Aubree Lawrence –competing in the 12-year -old Gold category received a silver medal on beam and placed eighth overall.
• Kamryn Dammann –competing the in 12-yearold and older Gold category received a silver medal on bars and placed fifth all around.
• Lexi Heimlick placed ninth all around in the 12year-old and older Gold category.
The overall team effort was also noteworthy, with every athlete giving their best. It is not just about winning medals, it’s about the journey, the growth and the camaraderie among the gymnasts.
Young athletes learn soccer drills and techniques during a Cougars Camp, held at the Credit Union Spark Centre recently. Members of the Cougars soccer team were available to spend time teaching new skills to Weyburn soccer players.
Riders race to success at Trackside Motocross
SaskToday staff
The Trackside Motocross Association kicked off its racing season and hosted the first program of the year for the South Corner Racing Circuit on May 10.
Top five finishers in each division, listed from first to fifth, were:
25 plus: Josh Nay, Zac Butler, Kate Lees, Orin Janke and Bryce Friess;
50cc: Huckson Stefan, Seth Arrange, Max Morrice, Max Penna and Jett Duguerre;
65cc: Bentley Haus, Vinton Penna, Lacey Bar-
bour, Seth Arrance and Huckson Stefan;
85cc: Royce Milford, Evan Barbour, Stars Lemieux, Dexter Haus and Roman Quigley;
A class: Connor Bendickson, Tucker Wyatt, Josh Nay, Adam Saban and Brooks Milford;
B class: Leo Hickey, Reid Huber, Caden Fonstad, Logan Pullman and Lauren Pullman;
C class: Jaxon Smith, Henry Ortman, Logan Piper, Austin Johnson and Tanner Kopeck; Ladies: Lauren Pullman,
Kate Lees, Emily Quigley, Mya Bendickson and Lacey Barbour; Moto mom: Lucinda Milford, Amanda Coates, Tory Brown and Deandra Ortman; School boy: Tucker Wyatt, Nathan Bendickson, Leo Hickey, Reid Huber and Deegan Ostendorf; Super mini: Eli Hickey, Royce Milford, Evan Barbour, Straws Lemieux and Dexter Haus; Two-stroke: Cole Barnstable, Randy Franke, Grayson Pryde, Caden Fonstad and Eli Hickey;
Vet: Adam Saban, Steve Butler, Aaron Giesbrecht, Randy Franke and Greg Kerr;
The South Corner Racing Circuit will have races in Estevan, Carlyle, Alameda, Assiniboia and Weyburn, as well as in Souris, Man.
Many of the riders from the Trackside Motocross Club compete in local series like the SCRC or race elsewhere in the province.
Sara Parks SaskToday.ca
For wrestling legend “Cowboy” James Storm, the ring was his salvation.
“It was either that or go to jail,” he said with a laugh during a phone interview with SaskToday from his home in Tennessee. Though he won’t elaborate further, saying, “It’s something I would rather not talk about.”
Now the hard-hitting southern brawler brings his wild antics to Weyburn on May 27, as part of the Western Canadian Point To Prove Tour. Storm headlines a chaotic Canadian Wrestling’s Elite (CWE) card, featuring a Loser Eats a Can of Wet Dog Food Match, plus appearances by CWE Champion “Chizzled” Chad Daniels, “The Crazy MoFo” CAM!!ikaze, and “The Zombie Killer” MENTALLO, among others.
“Canada is like a
second home to me,” said Storm.
The 47-year-old wrestler, whose real name is James Allen Cox, is instantly recognizable with his cowboy hat and persona.
“It was something that was bestowed on me when I was really young,” he said. “My grandmother gave me that nickname and it stuck with me, so I try to honour her in my wrestling career.”
Storm, known for his charisma, uses humour in his matches as he is portrayed as a beer-drinking, tough-talking southern cowboy.
“If you leave people with a feeling, they will remember that more than anything you do,” he said.
Over the years he has suffered serious injuries.
“I had a compound fracture in my right shoulder and had to have emergency surgery to repair that,” he said.
His signature moves are Last Call (superkick) and Eye of the Storm (spinning sidewalk slam). To stay in shape, he hits the gym six days a week. He also credits his children with keeping him active.
“Running around with them and doing stuff with them I have to give them credit for keeping me going.”
Like wrestlers before him, such as The Rock, Storm is transitioning into an acting career.
“That’s how I pay my bills,” he said.
Storm was part of the legendary tag team America’s Most Wanted (AMW) with Chris Harris. He later formed Beer Money, Inc. with Bobby Roode, becoming one of TNA’s most successful tag teams and is a multiple tag team champion in the TNA. He is a twotime NWA World Heavyweight Champion and a
TNA World Heavyweight Champion.
“It’s good to be recognized by your peers and they think highly of you so I must have done something right somewhere,” he said.
Storm’s iconic career spans decades—but his greatest pride...
“Just that I was able to provide for my kids.”
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Mackenzie Pulfer
AG SAFETY
Farm safety: mental health should be taken seriously
Farm safety isn’t a new topic, but good mental health and the need to stay strong in this realm is a relatively new, and positive, development in the agricultural sector.
It’s always imperative we take our mental wellness seriously as we navigate this wonderful yet sometimes stressful industry. Each day we talk, we continue to break down
the walls and remove the stigma on mental health. It can’t be said enough: it’s OK to not be OK. The most valuable asset on any farm is not the tractor, the acreage or the quota, it’s you. Without you, the farm doesn’t exist. Even before the rigours of farming become too much to handle — which can happen to the “strongest” among us — take time to reach out to your spouse, family, a trusted friend or an advisor.
As the average age of Canadian producers continues to increase, there’s still some generational ideology that asking for help indicates weakness. However, younger producers are increasingly taking note of their mental health and ability to help the older generation realize there is value in talking through hard times. Don’t underestimate the power of conversation. Often, small gestures can make huge differences in the life of someone who is struggling. Watch for warning signs of a person in crisis: normally social people isolating for no reason, noticeable subject changes in social media, easily irritated or surpris-
ingly combative, negative conversations.
Everyone wants to go home healthy and safe at the end of the day and working as a team and taking ownership of safety responsibilities are vital in maintaining a safe, strong farm operation.
Keeping with the team concept, the farm owner or manager is the head coach, who ensures there is a system to manage safety on the farm and assign safety roles to employees. Supervisors are the assistant coaches. They make sure they execute the plays called by the head coach and provide the workers guidance on how to do their tasks in a safe and productive manner.
Workers are the players themselves, with a role to score goals and make the team successful. If a player is injured, they can’t fulfil their role and it could cost the team. Practice makes teams successful; this is no different when it comes to farm safety. Practice farm safety. Make sure everyone is trained to perform their job tasks and are regularly reviewing procedures and identifying and controlling hazards. Employers, managers and supervisors need to monitor processes, detect gaps, and spot room for improvements.
Attitude makes all the difference, so encourage everyone to openly discuss safety concerns. Hold -
ing regular Toolbox Talks about safety topics is a great way to build a positive safety culture. It’s also important to be self-aware about individual physical and mental wellbeing. An injury, illness or mental health issue can put anyone at risk. Identifying and treating injuries and illnesses will benefit the team in the long run. Agriculture is one of the riskiest industries from a health and safety perspective. Farmers contend with countless hazards, some of which include dust, chemicals, noise, vibration, allergens, infectious agents, and repetitive motion as well as the psychological toll of the job itself.
How can I measure my noise exposure?
A sound meter or dosimeter can be used to measure noise in your work environment and can providevaluable information on your noise level exposure over time.
Dosimeters measure sound pressure levels and noise. These measurements are integrated to provide a noise exposure reading. In many industrial occupations dosimeters are either worn by
employees or are placed in areas where noise levels may be a concern and are monitored.
The increased use and advances in technology mean you don’t need a dosimeter to measure your noise exposure. There are many apps available for your Smartphone that can be used to measure noise levels.
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has
developed their own sound level meter (SLM) app and is available for download for iOS devices.
NIOSH also conducted a study testing the effectiveness of a variety of dosimeter apps that are available for both Android and iOS devices.
These apps include:
SoundMeter - Android
NoisEE - iOS
NoiseHunter - iOS
SPLnnFFT - iOS
There are many other apps available to choose from, if you are interested in getting a better idea of your noise exposures when on the tractor, combine or doing other tasks around the farm.
Download one these apps as a simple and easy way to find out your noise exposure level and make an informed decision on when you may need to use hearing protection.
FCC AgriSuccess article by Trevor Bacque.
AG SAFETY
Ryan Young SaskAgToday.com
Agriculture and AgriFood Canada (AAFC) announced Friday afternoon the federal, provincial, and territorial governments agreed to extend the application deadline for AgriStability.
Farmers now have until July 31st to enroll into the program, without penalty;
the original deadline was April 30.
The change comes amid “pressures and uncertainties facing the agriculture sector”, according to an AAFC news release. They also said the additional time will allow producers to “consider their needs and manage the impact of challenges”, such as “production loss, increased costs and changing
market conditions.”
In a separate news release, Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison says the uncertainty “reinforces the importance of our business risk management programs.”
The provincial government notes in the last six program years, farmers in the province received over $565 million in benefit payments.
This isn’t the first time AgriStability was modified. Back in late March, the compensation rate was increased to 90 per cent and the maximum payment was bumped up to $6 million for the 2025 program year. AAFC said at the time the changes would support farmers from the Chinese tariffs on peas, canola oil and canola meal, and from the U.S. tariffs.
AG SAFETY
SaskPower: stay safe around power lines
Ryan Young SaskAgToday.com
In its annual reminder to farmers across Saskatchewan, SaskPower says stay clear of power lines when operating farm equipment during seeding.
Last year, SaskPower recorded 262 farm-related incidents involving power infrastructure such as power lines with most of them occurring in the spring.
There are several preventative measures producers can take this spring:
• Plan your route ahead of time using the interactive Look Up and Live map.
• Take routine breaks to avoid fatigue.
• If you’re moving a large load around power lines, request a temporary line lift.
In the event farm equipment comes in contact with a power line, SaskPower says unless there is a fire, the safest place to be is in the cab of the vehicle and call 911. But if there is a fire, there is a procedure to get out:
• Swing the vehicle door wide open, making sure to not touch the outside of the vehicle .Make sure no wires are in your way.
• Stand in the doorway of the vehicle, cross your arms
• Lower or retract equipment all the time when crossing or working around power lines. Use a spotter for a second set of eyes on the ground.
in front of your chest and put your feet together.
• Jump as far from the vehicle as possible landing with your feet together, ensuring you don’t touch the outside of the vehicle. With your arms still crossed and feet together, hop at last 10 meters away from the vehicle.
• Call 911 immediately.
• Do not return to your vehicle until the area has been made safe
“This is really important for us to get this messaging out, to provide these tips, just to keep it top of mind, just to make sure that everyone is making safety a priority,” said Scott McGregor, Media Relations Consultant
with SaskPower.
Of the number of incidents, McGregor says no producer intends to hit a line while seeding but is glad the number is going down.
More information on working safely near power lines can be found at saskpower.com/lookupandlive.
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
IN THE MATTER IN THE ESTATE OF ISABEL DOROTHY WHITROW, LATE OF MCTAGGART SASKATCHEWAN, DECEASED ALL CLAIMS AGAINST THE ABOVE ESTAT E , dul y ve ri
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How AI is changing law enforcement in Canada
National Police Week, celebrated from May 11 to 17, 2025, is an opportune time to reflect on how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming police operations in Canada. Here’s a look at some of the latest tech.
• Facial recognition software helps officers identify suspects more efficiently by matching images from crime scenes with databases of known offenders.
• Automated licence plate readers (ALPRs) play a critical role in identifying stolen ve hicles or tracking wanted individuals by scanning plates at high speeds.
• Gunshot detection systems use AI to analyze sounds in real time, helping officers quickly locate gunfire incidents and respond promptly.
• Social media analysis tools sift through vast amounts of online data to detect threats, trends or areas of concern, allowing law enforcement to stay ahead of potential issues.
• Police robots equipped with AI capabilities can perform duties like surveillance or bomb disposal, further protecting officers and civilians during high-risk situations.
Ethical considerations
Artificial intelligence offers numerous benefits, but it also raises ethical concerns, particularly regarding privacy and potential biases. For example, some people worry that facial recognition might lead to incorrect identifications or disproportionately target marginalized communities.
Fortunately, Canadian authorities are actively developing policies to govern the use of AI in law enforcement, aiming to balance the advantages of technological advancements with civil liberties.
As AI continues to shape modern policing, National Police Week is a great time to showcase how technological innovations enhance public safety.
Diversity in policing: why representation matters
National Police Week i an essential opportunity to reflect on the importance of diversity within law enforcement agencies across the country. Explore how a diverse police force creates trust, enhances communication and promotes effective policing.
• Diversity builds trust. Representation matters in policing. When community members see officers who share their backgrounds and experiences, it fosters a sense of legitimacy and connection. This representation makes individuals feel seen and heard, strengthening community ties.
• Diversity improves community relations. Di -
verse officers bring valuable cultural insights that help them understand the unique challenges and needs of the communities they serve. This leads to more effective and empathetic policing.
• Diversity fosters better problem-solving and innovation. A diverse police force offers a wealth of experiences and viewpoints. A team made up of officers with different life experiences and perspectives can collaborate to develop creative strategies to reduce crime and improve public safety.
Diversity in policing isn’t merely a commendable goal. It’s a necessary component in creating a safer environment for everyone.
