April 20 - 22, 2016 Yorkton, SK CONFERENCE PROGRAM
SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
P RO U D TO B E T H E 2 0 1 6 H O S T : A S S I N I B O I N E W A T E R S H E D S T E WA R D S H I P A S S O C I A T I O N
29 Second Avenue North Yorkton, SK S3N 1G1
Phone: 306-783-1696 www.assiniboinewatershed.com
SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
GREETINGS FROM WATER SECURITY AGENCY WATER SECURITY AGENCY PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE On behalf of the Water Security Agency, I wish you a successful conference. Improving management of agricultural drainage has been a priority for Water Security Agency over the past year and will continue to be a priority in coming years. I greatly appreciate the assistance Saskatchewan Associating of Watersheds (SAW) and its members have provided over the past two years as we developed our Agricultural Water Management Strategy. In particular I appreciate the assistance provided by the Assiniboine Watershed Stewardship Association and Upper Souris Watershed Association on the drainage pilots and by SAW in organizing 2 conferences on drainage. Part of the Agricultural Water Management Strategy will involve strengthening and creating additional watershed associations and conservation area authorities. These groups provide effective ways of addressing local water management challenges including drainage. It is, however, important that they do this in the context of the whole watershed. Strengthening relationships between the watershed stewardship groups and these more local groups will help bring a watershed perspective to local management. I therefore congratulate Moose Jaw River Watershed Stewards for their success in creating new conservation area authorities and the Assiniboine Watershed Stewardship Association for forging closer relationships and assisting with administration of several watershed associations and conservation area authorities. This is a very positive model. Accountability for public money is very important. It is essential for success of WSA that we can show the success you achieve with the grant monies we provide. Past reporting has not always provided all the information we need. I am encouraged by the regular meetings of your coordinators with WSA staff and by the work done at these meetings to provide better and consistent reporting aligned with Government direction as expressed in the 25 Year Saskatchewan Water Security Plan. WSA’s is planning substantial work toward development of new water legislation. We will look forward to discussions with you on needs for new legislation later in the year. Best wishes for a good conference and thanks to each of you for your commitment to good water management. Wayne Dybvig President Water Security Agency
GREETINGS FROM SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS CHAIR’S MESSAGE On behalf of the Board of Directors and staff of the Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds (SAW), I am pleased to welcome everyone to our watershed conference and the SAW Annual General Meeting. This is the second time the conference has been in Yorkton, with the Assiniboine Watershed Stewardship Association as our host. This is the premiere water conference in the province and we are pleased you are able to join us. This year’s theme, “Water – Growing Saskatchewan’s Economy”, will highlight some of the key roles water plays within Saskatchewan’s economy. It does not take much thought to realize water, Saskatchewan’s economy and our survival are all closely linked. 2015 is the year Saskatchewan’s watershed stewards turned the corner on working with the Water Security Agency. SAW, along with its members support, is moving forward on numerous watershed programs and initiatives. We are 11 members covering 86 percent of the subdivided portion of this province. We, the watershed stewards, are making a difference in the use, protection and conservation of our number one resource, water. Within this conference, please take an opportunity to share and learn from each other’s experiences and be mindful of how important water is to our economy and how vital it is to our lives. Welcome, enjoy and participate in the 2016 watershed conference. “Water – Growing Saskatchewan’s Economy”. David Sloan Chair, Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds
SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
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SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
GREETINGS FROM THE ASSINIBOINE WATERSHED STEWARDSHIP ASSOCIATION CHAIR’S MESSAGE On behalf of all our member municipalities, Board of Directors and staff of the Assiniboine Watershed Stewardship Association (AWSA), as your host watershed I would like to extend a warm welcome to everyone to our 2016 Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds Conference here in Yorkton. Growing Saskatchewan’s Economy ..... an impossible task without good quality and quantity water resources to rely upon. We all know that good quality water is the basis and essence of life, growth and good health – and so it is with the economy. In order for the Province to succeed in its VISON 2020 Strategic Plan for Growth, and accomplish its goals and objectives, the economy of Saskatchewan has to also grow substantially. Hence the theme of our conference this year, and the vital importance that it plays in the future of our great province. Watersheds and water stewardship is everyone’s responsibility. Its value can never be underestimated and ownership of the resource has to always remain in government hands (both provincial and municipal). This conference offers many opportunities to learn, share challenges and successes, and to seek possible solutions to complex problems ..... by working together at the grassroots level. Again welcome, and enjoy our 2016 SAW Annual Conference. Don Olson, Chair Assiniboine Watershed Stewardship Association Inc.
SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
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The great indoors. We didn’t check the forecast for cold weather. Or bring out the colouring books and crayons. But we did provide the heat so this family could enjoy the day together. When the energy you invest in life meets the energy we fuel it with, indoor fun happens.
Wetlands are not an inconvenience.
Wetlands provide‌
Clean water
Recreation spots
Abundant wildlife
Flood control
Protect wetlands.
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SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
Watershed Conference Ad | 3.5” x 9.5” | FINAL
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SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
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For more information contact:
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(403) 388-1311 (204) 488-2997 (306) 975-3647 (204) 488-2997
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SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
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SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
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AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 20TH, 2016 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. 5:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Registration and Trade Show Viewing Water on the Rocks Mixer - sponsored by Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation
THURSDAY, APRIL 21ST, 2016 8:00 - 10:20 a.m. 8:30 - 10:00 a.m.
Registration and Trade Show Viewing SAW Annual General Meeting
10:00 - 10:20 a.m. 10:20 - 10:35 a.m.
Water Break/Registration Opening Remarks
Don Olson - Conference and Assiniboine Watershed Stewardship Association Chair
David Sloan - SAW Chair
Bob Maloney - Mayor of Yorkton
10:35 - 11:00 a.m.
Saskatchewan Water Security Agency Update
Water is a public resource and managing water is a provincial responsibility. Managing a resource of this importance requires a long-term vision and well- planned series of actions. The Water Security Agency continues to address key actions outlined in WSA’s 25 Year Plan. Presenter: TBD, Saskatchewan Water Security Agency
11:00 - 11:30 a.m.
NEW WSA Drainage Framework and Policy
Taking a look at WSA’s new drainage approach and implementation to water management in Saskatchewan. Presenter: Doug Johnson, Executive Director, Water Security Agency
11:30 - 12:00 p.m. NEW WSA Drainage Complaint Process A New Drainage Complaint Process in Saskatchewan is beginning to be implemented across Saskatchewan. Here is an opportunity for
delegates to have a better understanding how the process has been improved. Presenter: Dwayne Rowlett, Manager Northern Regional Services, Water Security Agency
12:00 -1:00 p.m.
Lunch - sponsored by AMEC
1:00 - 2:15 p.m. Water... Growing Saskatchewan’s Economy Break Out Session Discussion on how government and non-government organizations can enhance watershed knowledge in Saskatchewan and across Canada. Facilitators: David Sloan and Bridget Andrews PAg, Saskatchewan Association of Watersheds
2:15 - 3:00 p.m.
Water - Managing Canada’s Critical asset
Presenter: Bernadette Conant - CEO - Canada Water Network
3:00 - 3:15 p.m.
Water Hole and Trade Show Viewing- sponsored by Ducks Unlimited Canada
3:15 - 3:45 p.m.
The Alberta Approach to Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention
The negative environmental and economic risks associated with the introduction of AIS being introduced into Alberta’s rivers and lakes. Presenter: Kate Wilson, Alberta Environment
3:45 - 4:30 p.m.
Assiniboine Watershed Stewardship Association Presentation
A detailed look at the watershed projects implemented by the AWSA. Presenter: Jesse Nielsen, Watershed Manager, Assiniboine Watershed Stewardship Association
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SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
5:00 - 6:00 p.m.
Water on the Rocks Cocktails/Poster Contest Viewing
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Banquet - sponsored by Enbridge
7:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Award Presentations
7:30 p.m.
Entertainment - Kinakin Magic and Hypnotist Show
Following Entertainment - Social to Follow and Silent Auction Closes
FRIDAY, APRIL 22ND, 2016
8:00 - 9:00 a.m. 8:00 - 9:00 a.m.
Registration and Trade Show Viewing Trade Show Viewing & Continental Breakfast - sponsored by APAS
9:00 - 9:30 a.m.
2010 Saskatchewan Fisheries Study
The economic impact the fisheries industry has in Saskatchewan. Presenter: Bob Skatfeld, Fisheries and Policy Analyst, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment
9:30 - 10:00 a.m.
Saskatchewan’s Water Allocation Process for Industry
How the provinicial government allocates and permits water usage for Saskatchewan industry. Presenter: Jeff Hovdebo, Director, Licensing and Water Use, Water Security Agency
10:00 - 10:15 a.m.
Watering Hole and Trade Show Viewing - sponsored by SARRC
10:15 - 10:45 a.m.
Solid Waste Management Practises for Source Water Protection
Solid waste practises that can be implemented by communities to protect ground and surface water quality. Presenter: Sarah Keith, Manager of Landfills Section, Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment
10:45 - 11:15 a.m.
Water... An Environmentally Sustainable Resource in the Potash Industry
How water is utilized in the potash industry. Presenters: Jackson Lake, Process Engineer, Mosaic Company, Esterhazy Operation
Megan Krienke, Environmental Engineer, Mosaic Company, Esterhazy Operation
11:15 - 12:00 p.m. Old Wives Watershed Association Virtual Tour Presentation A virtual tour through the Old Wives Watershed; focusing on Source Water Protection, Industry, Tourism and Species at Risk
Presenter: Kelly Williamson, Watershed Manager, Old Wives Watershed Association
12:00 - 1:00 p.m. 1:00 - 1:45 p.m.
Lunch - sponsored by Richardson Oilseed Ltd. Our Environment is Our Economy - Growing Business through Market Relevance
Industry, economy and environment can work togethether harmoniously. Presenter: Carl Neggers, CEO, SM Solutions
1:45 - 2:15 p.m.
Uranium Mining Water Management - Enhancing Environmental Sustainability
A view how water is used and recycled in the uranium mining industry.
Presenter: Sarah Benson, Environmental Scientist, AREVA Resources Canada
2:15 - 2:30 p.m.
Watering Hole and Trade Show Viewing - sponsored by Big Garry’s Hail Insurance
2:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Environmental and Economic Goals in Future Decision Making for Integrated Water Resource Management.
Presenter: Karla Zubrycki, Project and Communications Manager, Water Program, International Institute for Sustainable Development
3:30 p.m.
Conference Wrap Up
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PRESENTERS Doug Johnson, PEng, Water Security Agency Doug graduated with a B.Sc. in Biology from the University of Winnipeg in 1980 and a B.Sc. in Water Resource Engineering from the University of Guelph in 1984. Initially he worked at Grand River Conservation Authority in Cambridge Ontario and then moved onto Ontario Hydro, until 1990. Since February 1990, he has worked at various positions with Sask Water, Saskatchewan Watershed Authority and the Water Security Agency. Currently he is the Acting Executive Director of Special Projects, responsible for developing a new drainage regulatory system.
Dwayne Rowlett, M.Sc., Peng, Water Security Agency When not travelling with his wife to attend the sporting events of their 3 teenage children, Dwayne prides himself on being able to bring people, groups and municipalities together to solve water management and flood control issues. Dwayne’s background of a decade of experience in engineering and project development and about a dozen years experience as a provincial regulator with Water Security Agency allow him to guide people through project development and regulatory processes. The key to successful projects is the process of fully understanding the requirements necessary to complete the work and setting realistic goals to ensure that it happens. Dwayne Rowlett can be contacted at dwayne.rowlett@wsask.ca Today, Dwayne will be wearing his regulator hat and will be explaining recent changes to the drainage complaint process.
Bernadette Conant, CEO, Canada Water Network Bernadette Conant is the chief executive officer of Canadian Water Network, where she has been working since 2003. Established in 2001 by Canada’s Networks of Centres of Excellence, Canadian Water Network plays a vital role in ensuring that Canada benefits from its investments in research to manage its water resources more effectively and becomes a world leader in water management. Bernadette has a Master of Science in hydrogeology from the University of Waterloo and holds the Faculty of Science Alumni of Honour Award from that institution. She currently serves as a director on the boards of the Global Water Research Coalition, Hydrogeologists Without Borders and the Water Economics, Policy and Governance Network, and is a member of the Water Partner Advisory Committee to the Water Stewardship Committee of the Canadian Council of the Federation.
Kate Wilson, Alberta Environment Kate has worked on aquatic invasive species issues and management for the past several years both in Idaho helping to implement a prevention program and in Florida during graduate school. She is excited to lead the development of Alberta’s provincial aquatic invasive species program to protect the freshwater resources and all the critters that live there.
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Jesse Nielsen, M.Sc., Assiniboine Watershed Stewardship Association Jesse Nielsen was born and raised in Yorkton. He received his Bachelor of Science degree (High Honours) in Land Use and Environmental Studies (LUESt) at the University of Saskatchewan in May of 2007 and a Master of Science degree from U of S in June of 2010. His thesis research partnered with Ducks Unlimited Canada to develop a framework for the cumulative effects assessment of project development on wetlands, specifically focusing on the Highway # 11 North twinning project between Saskatoon and Prince Albert, SK. He is confident in his ability to apply the skills and knowledge learned through his education to promote and raise awareness of source water protection, and contribute to the overall success of the Association’s work in the Assiniboine River Watershed. As a life-long avid fisherman and hunter, Jesse is especially passionate about protecting the natural beauty and sustainability of the Yorkton area he calls home. As such, he is excited to contribute to the protection of source water in the Yorkton Area Aquifers and Assiniboine River Watershed. Jesse firmly believes in taking an active role in ensuring that the natural resources of the Assiniboine River are kept healthy for future generations to use and appreciate.
Bob Skatfeld, Ministry of Environment I began my career as a Conservation Officer with the Ministry of Environment in 1984. In the eighteen years I was as an officer I was stationed at Good Spirit, Echo Valley, Pike Lake, Blackstrap, Rowan’s Ravine, Kindersley, Saskatchewan Landing and Moose Mountain Provincial Park. In 2002 I left the field to pursue my passion in the Fish and Wildlife Branch as the Aboriginal Liaison Officer. In 2004 after a public service down sizing I was reassigned to the outfitting file and worked as a coordinator and then provincial manager until 2011. In June 2011 I left the wildlife side of the branch to work in the fisheries allocation section as the Team Lead. In addition to supervising three staff I lead the policy and legislation/ regulation file.
Jeff Hovdebo, M.Sc., Sask Water Jeff Hovdebo was born and raised in Saskatchewan. He received an honours degree in Biology from the University of Regina where he worked as a Limnologist for several years after graduation. In 2001 Jeff joined Fisheries and Oceans Canada where he held positions in fisheries biology, impact assessment and program management. In 2012 Jeff joined the Water Security Agency as the Manager of Water Rights, Approvals and Compliance and he is currently the Director of Licencing and Water Use. Jeff lives in Regina with his wife Marcia and their three children Lily, William and Elizabeth.
SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
PRESENTERS Sarah Keith, Ministry of Environment Sarah Keith has been with the Ministry of Environment for 14 years and is currently the Manager of Landfills with the Environmental Protection Branch. Previous to her current role with the landfill section, Sarah was an Environmental Protection Officer and regulated municipal drinking water, wastewater and landfills as well as industrial operations primarily potash mines and industrial landfills. Sarah has also held roles as a Provincial Hazardous Materials Coordinator and Manager of Case Management with the Client Service Office. Sarah has a BSc in Environmental Science from the University of Calgary and lives in Prince Albert with her husband and two boys who are 7 and 5 years old.
Jackson Lake, P.Eng., Mosaic Company
Jackson Lake is a Process Engineer for The Mosaic Company at their Esterhazy operations. His responsibilities include monitoring the performance and optimization of the surface milling systems. He has led an Energy Assessment for the surface and underground operation as part of the sustainability efforts at Mosaic and is currently a member of the Esterhazy Sustainability Team. Jackson has been employed with Mosaic for 5 years working at both the Belle Plaine and Esterhazy operations and holds a Mechanical Engineering Degree.
Megan Krienke, P.Eng., Mosaic Company
Megan Krienke is an Environmental Engineer for The Mosaic Company at their Esterhazy operations. Her responsibilities include monitoring environmental compliance as well as the implementation and coordination of environmental programs. Megan leads surface and groundwater management at the K2 site and is currently a member of the Esterhazy Sustainability Team. Megan has been employed with Mosaic for 7 years working at both the Colonsay and Esterhazy operations and holds a Chemical Engineering Degree from the University of Saskatchewan.
Kelly Williamson P. Ag., Old Wives Watershed Association Kelly Williamson is a forage, seed, and cattle producer from southwest Saskatchewan. With 20 years of experience as a primary producer, combined with a degree in Agriculture, Kelly uses his experience to practice agrology in the province. His consulting focus is on various agri-environmental projects, always looking towards advancing methods of environmentally sound agriculture, today and into the future. He has kept current with involvement with agricultural linked boards including the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association, Society of Range Management, Pambrun Conservation and Development, Old Wives Watershed Association, South of the Divide Conservation Action Plan, and the Rural Municipality of Whiska Creek.
Carl Neggers, CEO, SM Solutions Carl brings over 30 years of strategic and sustainable management experience to the SM Solutions team. He has worked with federal and provincial ministries, the hospitality industry, accounting firms, professional sports franchises and environmental service companies helping to restructure and streamline their practices towards a more self-reliant, sustainable and profitable future. Most recently, as CEO of Stark & Marsh Chartered Accountants, LLP he lead the firm in strategic transformation and a revitalization of their governance framework. Prior to this, Carl was the Director General of the federal government’s Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration (PFRA). Serving western Canada, PFRA is an internationally recognized agency, which addresses the sustainable resource development challenges faced by agriculture and rural Canadians. Carl also served as Executive Director of the Saskatchewan Agri-Food Equity Fund, working with entrepreneurs in the development and commercialization of their innovative products and services. As Assistant Deputy Minister of Saskatchewan’s Department of Highways and Transportation, Carl led the development of the provincial submission to the comprehensive review of the Canada Transportation Act (CTA), including a position on transportation infrastructure financing. Carl holds a Masters in Business Administration and has extensive international experience and also served as a lecturer at both the University of Regina and University of Guelph.
Karla Zubrycki, International Institute for Sustainable Development Karla Zubrycki is a Project and Communications Manager with the Water program at the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD). Her work focuses on watershed-based bioeconomies, watershed governance, adaptive policies, ecohealth, water-energy-food security, sustainability indicators, citizen science and the history of the Lake Winnipeg watershed. She holds a Master’s Degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Waterloo, a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and Bachelor’s Degree in English from the University of Winnipeg, and a Diploma in Communications from Red River College.
Sarah Benson, AREVA Resources Canada Inc. Sarah was born and raised in Saskatchewan; growing up on a farm north of Maidstone, SK. After high school I moved to Saskatoon to attend the University of Saskatchewan where I completed a bachelor’s of science in biology. Directly after graduating, I began working in the aquatics laboratory at the Toxicology Centre, also at the U of S. After working in the laboratory for a few years I decided to pursue a master’s degree in toxicology. After completing my post graduate degree, I worked as a toxicologist in the provincial government’s health and safety department in Regina. I am currently an environmental scientist at AREVA Resources Canada Inc., working at the head office in Saskatoon. In my role at AREVA I work on environmental monitoring programs, environmental assessments, meeting regulatory requirements, participating in regulatory reviews, liaising with regulators and stakeholders and a variety of other projects. I have been at AREVA since 2007, but I have recently returned to work since taking a year leave to have my second child.
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SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
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SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
** IMPORTANT – SASKFSA WORKING WITH WSA ** UPDATE ON PHASE II OF THE NEW DRAINAGE REGULATIONS - AGRICULTURE WATER MANAGEMENT IN SASKATCHEWAN
In the development of the NEW Water Security Agency Regulations, the Minister of Environment and the Water Security Agency (WSA) consulted with SaskFSA and other key stakeholders. WSA continues to consult with stakeholders in the implementation of the regulations to define the “New Approach to Agricultural Water Management”. Large areas on the east side of the grainbelt are identified as high risk watersheds. SaskFSA continues to work closely with WSA to develop policies which will work for farmers in these high risk areas. These discussions are EXTREMELY IMPORTANT AND INSTRUMENTAL IN PROTECTING YOUR ABILITY TO FARM. SaskFSA strongly defends the role of farmers and ranchers as leaders in land and water stewardship.
Your SaskFSA board is dedicated 100% to a working with WSA to represent the producer’s voice. Countless hours have gone into email/phone discussions, board meetings, developing proposals, evaluating solutions and meeting/corresponding with WSA on a weekly basis. The primary objectives of the new risk-based regulatory system are to minimize the negative impacts of downstream flooding; protect water quality and to minimize negative impacts on wetlands and water beds, shores and watercourses. In an attempt to minimize downstream impacts, a number of concepts have been discussed. Some of these concepts include: . The length and terms of the drainage license . Water bodies and wetlands which can be drained versus those water bodies that warrant protection/retention . The concept of a percent holdback (retention) of wetlands in drainage project approvals . Potential restoration of drained wetlands . The ability to backfill depressions and/or drained wetlands . A drainage mitigation fee per quarter section, to be used within the watershed to mitigate the impacts of drainage Another important area of discussion has been expanding the responsibility of water management to include all stakeholders - anyone who has water on their land, whether it be naturally shedding rainfall, a conservation area, rural municipalities, industry, urban or agricultural drainage. Collectively, all water has an impact and collectively we can work towards a plan for managing its impact during peak flows. SaskFSA continues to bring solutions to the table that address both the producers’ ability to responsibly manage surface water to farm efficiently while taking into account the provincial objectives of the new water policy. SaskFSA has made a significant impact on the direction of the regulations thus far.
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Hydrology and Habitats Workshop Come join us for an amazing workshop given by Dr. Dave Sauchyn, Professor at the University of Regina. Topics to be covered include: riparian health, stream hydrology and function and plant identification.
When? June 13th to 17th Where? Cypress Hills Resort, Saskatchewan Only 30 spots available! Only $400 (includes lunches and course materials). Registration deadline is April 15th 2016. Please email Jamie at tech@oldwiveswatershed.com to register. Rooms at the resort are blocked until April 30th 2016. Presented by the Old Wives Watershed Association. For more information please go to www.oldwiveswatershed.com 16
SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
Working Together for a Brighter Future One Basin. One Vision. The Assiniboine River basin extends over Saskatchewan, Manitoba and North Dakota and encompasses the Qu’Appelle, Souris, Assiniboine Rivers and their tributaries. Working together to achieve environmental, social and economic sustainability, ARBI is focused on watershed action that will benefit current and future generations across the Assiniboine River Basin.
info@arb-int.com
@arbi_qsa
/ARBInitiative
Box 1113, Winnipeg Main PO Winnipeg, MB R3C 2X4
204-795-6672
SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIATION OF WATERSHEDS
Our Vision: For a long-term, stable, high quality water supply for people and for the environment.
Welcomes you to the Town of Esterhazy for the 2017 SAW Conference
Suite 7 - 418 Main Street Esterhazy, SK S0A 0X0 Phone 306-745-9774