The Water Security Agency is reminding the public that winter river flows can result in thin ice and create unsafe crossing conditions in many areas across the province.
Winter flows are continuing to be released from reservoirs across Saskatchewan which results in active flows under ice on major systems. There are also other areas where natural flows are still occurring and pose similar risks to the public. These flows are expected to continue throughout the winter season.
In addition, many creeks and rivers have higher flows than normal for this time of year due to the rainfall over the summer and fall months. Many streams that are normally dry by fall were still flowing at freeze up and may continue to flow through the winter.
Winter stream flow is an extremely serious thin ice hazard. Any person on or near a lake or river should use extreme caution when crossing. It is up to the individual to ensure that ice on a river or lake is safe for crossing or winter activities.
The Water Security Agency was created to lead implementation of the 25 Year Saskatchewan Water Security Plan. It will improve water management capacity and service to individuals, businesses and communities across Saskatchewan. This new agency brings together, for the first time, all of the major responsibilities related to water quality and quantity.
