WATER SUPPLY PROJECT FOR PIKE LAKE

Released on July 28, 1999

A project planned for later this summer, at a site approximately 24

kilometres southwest of Saskatoon, is expected to solve the low water

level problems plaguing Pike Lake.



Sask Water and Saskatchewan Environment and Resource Management will

split the $760,000 cost of a 280-metre-long spur dike designed to

divert flows on the South Saskatchewan River to the west side of the

waterway. This will allow an existing pump site to deliver water via

a supply canal to Pike Lake, about 2.5 kilometres west of the river.



"Low water level problems began to surface on Pike Lake a few years

ago as a result of a natural shift in the course of the South

Saskatchewan River," explained Maynard Sonntag, minister responsible

for Sask Water. "This project will ensure a reliable water supply is

available for the lake, and that desirable lake levels are

maintained."



The current river pump site and supply canal were established in the

1960s.



Tenders for the project were advertised during the week of July 17 and

will be opened Aug. 5. Construction is expected to commence in late

August and be substantially complete by freeze up.



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For more information, contact:



Bob Parker

Sask Water

Moose Jaw

Phone: (306) 694-3029