Quill Lakes diversion not going ahead

The Kutawagan Creek Diversion Project for the Quill Lakes is not going ahead.

The announcement was made by the province Thursday.

The project was aimed at reducing water levels at Quill Lake by diverting water from Kutawagan Creek away from Quill Lake to Last Mountain Lake. Survey and design work was undertaken by the Water Security Agency to assess the feasibility and the Water Security Agency held extensive public consultations with stakeholders, including four public open house meetings.

In a statement, Battlefords MLA and minister for the Water Security Agency Herb Cox cited the concerns expressed from the public.

“The feedback from stakeholder and public consultations is important and we have heard the concerns on this issue and have decided not to proceed with this project,” said Cox.

“The Water Security Agency will continue to look at other potential options for the situation at the Quill Lakes.”

The plan now is for the Water Security Agency to review possible alternatives around the Quill Lakes. “We are committed to working together with all stakeholders on any other projects that may be considered in the future,” Cox said.

According to the province the alternatives could include, but are not limited to, application of the risk-based drainage regulations in the new Agricultural Water Management Strategy.