this week
Kendra Ellingson and Jessica Fenwich carefully create designs on their eggs, as they learn how to create Ukrainian Easter Eggs during a program taught by Sherry Klemmer at the Weyburn Public Library.
Spring runoff underway in parts of Saskatchewan
The Water Security Agency (WSA) is updating its spring runoff forecast.
Runoff is well underway across most of the southwestern and the southern areas of Saskatchewan.
Warmer daytime temperatures combined with freezing overnight temperatures over the past month have resulted in a slow melt so far this spring.
Snowfalls in late March brought 10 to 20 cm of snow from the Lloydminster area through Saskatoon and toward Yorkton however, it is not expected to significantly increase runoff.
For most of the snowcovered areas in southern and central Saskatchewan, much of the runoff has seeped into the soil, and with below normal precipitation for the past month, runoff is expected to be near normal.
In the area between Regina and Saskatoon, heavier snowpack remains with above normal runoff expected.
Expected runoff in
northern Saskatchewan remains largely unchanged from the runoff forecast in March, with most of the Churchill River Basin and further north expected to see a below normal runoff.
The eastern parts of the Churchill River Basin around Sandy Bay and Flin Flon extending north to the southern part of the Reindeer Lake are expected to see near normal runoff this spring (up from the March 1 report due to heavier precipitation in March).
The runoff forecast can quickly change with heavy spring precipitation or rapid rises in temperatures causing fast snowpack melt.
Current reservoir levels at Lake Diefenbaker are more than one meter higher than average for this time of year as a result of the limited drawdown and early runoff in the southern prairie region.
As part of its overwinter operations plan to retain water supplies, WSA expects to exceed the recreational target of 552 meters by May 15.
RM of Weyburn moves forward with Seven Stars Energy Project
Sara Parks SaskToday.ca
The Rural Municipality (RM) of Weyburn has taken the first step toward approving a major renewable energy project, giving first reading on April 4 to a bylaw amendment to rezone land for Enbridge’s proposed Seven Stars Energy Project.
A public hearing is scheduled for April 29, where residents and stakeholders can voice their opinions on the development.
“This will be an opportunity not only for Enbridge to address council’s questions, but also to continue to engage in the
community, including the many local businesses and citizens who support the Seven Stars project,” said Alex McNichol, director, power business development Canada, Enbridge.
The $500-million wind energy development, slated for construction in the RMs of Weyburn and Griffin, promises to generate significant long-term economic and social benefits for the region. The 200-megawatt (MW) project is expected to span a 30-year lifecycle and deliver millions annually in tax revenue to local municipalities.
Enbridge says the Seven Stars project will generate well-paying jobs,
strengthen local economies, and support public infrastructure. The company also plans to sponsor community initiatives and provide grants and volunteer support.
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.
Area service providers stand to benefit as well. Enbridge estimates $20 to $40 million in contracting opportunities during construction. Additionally,
the company has committed to upgrading rural roads at its own expense in consultation with municipal leaders.
Despite the economic promise, not everyone supports the project.
A local grassroots group calling itself No Weyburn Windmills has voiced strong opposition to the wind turbines, citing concerns about environmental degradation, wildlife impacts, and potential health risks.
A spokesperson for the group, who requested anonymity due to fears of backlash, said they have concerns about the wind turbines.
She said they have ob -
tained 3,000 signatures online and more than 700 physical signatures in a petition against the project, which they plan to present to the Saskatchewan Legislature.
Opponents argue that wind energy developments in other parts of the world have led to negative consequences, including noiserelated health complaints, habitat destruction, and reductions in farmland and home values.
The RM’s bylaw amendment is to allow for the height of the wind turbines. The maximum proposed height is 45 metres in the Agricultural Resource Zoning District,
and six metres in a hamlet or country residential, commercial or industrial district. There will be a maximum of one domestic wind energy system per lot permitted and for residential applications, wind energy components and towers shall only be erected in rear yards.
The public hearing on April 29 starts at 7 p.m. and will be held in the upper level of McKenna Hall located at 317 - 3rd Street NE in Weyburn. Council will consider written comments received at the public hearing or delivered to the municipal office, no later than 4:30 pm. on April 29.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
COMMUNITY
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THANK YOU!
The Goodwater Community Center would like to thank the following for your suppor t of the Annual 2025 Curling Bonspiel.
Richardson Pioneer
E. Bourassa & Sons
Millenium Land
Grabbing Gears
York Jewellers
Fisk Repair
NAPA Weyburn
A-1 Rental-Alls
Goodwater Machine Shop
Wood Countr y SaskPower
Hoium Agencies
M&R Machines
Quantum Agronomy
Weyburn Cowtown
Quality Plumbing
Caprice Resources
Weyburn Ramada
Ward Custom Woodwork ing
Blaine Molstad
Farron Ward
Terr y McGillick y Dale Paslawsk i Peter Broccolo
Barber Motors
Whitecap Resources
Weyburn Home Hardware
Western Prime Meats
Eggum Seed Sales
Rick Freeman Farms
Moody Hollow Band
Spearing
New Age Electronics & Home Furnishings
McComb Automotive Estevan
Weyburn Auto Elec tic
MNP
Southeast Computer Solutions
Mr yglod Steel & Metals
Dempsey Laird Truck ing
South Countr y Equipment
Southern Bolt Estevan
Nelson Motors
Young’s Equipment
Jerr y Mainil Ltd.
Nutrien Solutions
RONA
Great Plains Ford
Golden West Radio
Weyburn UFA
Quantum Agrology
Prairie Wind Recreational
Club Cafe
Weyburn Noodle House
Weyburn Security
Prairie Seed Lab
Tribune Credit Union
Midale Credit Union
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5th Weyburn Scouts host Car Rally
The 5th Weyburn Scouting Group held their local BeaverBuggy, Kub Kar, and Big Rig Races on March 29.
There were three mat competitions and the speed race. It was held at Grace United Church, our long standing community sponsor, with Integrity Oilfield and the Weyburn Legion
providing a total of three judges for the Design competition portion.
Then, the 5th Weyburn Scouts traveled to Assiniboia on April 6, to race in the 1st Assiniboia Scouts races at St. George’s Parish Hall. The RCMP even came and gave all the participants thier own police cruiser to take home!
The 5th Weyburn will also head to Regina for the Provincial competitions on April 12, being held in Victoria Square Mall against youth from across the province.
The youth start out with a blank canvass essentially. They must take regular blocks of wood and turn them into a vehicle.
April 28 is National Day of Mourning
Mayor Jeff Richards declared April 28 in Weyburn as National Day of Mourning in honour of workers killed or injured on the job in Canada. Richards made the proclamation during council’s regular meeting on April 7.
Weyburn and District Labour Council President Wanda Bartlett said the ceremony will be held at the TC Douglas Cavalry Centre located at 400 –10 Avenue in Weyburn on
April 28.
“We appreciate everyone that can make it out to honour those worker,” said Bartlett.
The Canadian Labour Congress established April 28 as the National Day of Mourning in 1984, and it was officially recognized by the federal government in 1991.
On April 28, Canadian flags fly at half-mast on Parliament Hill and on all federal government buildings, according to the Canadian Centre for
Occupational Health and Safety.
Statistics for 2023 by the Association of Workers’ Compensation Boards of Canada (AWCBC), reveal there were 1,057 workplace fatalities recorded in Canada. Among these deaths there were 29 young workers aged 1524. In addition to those deaths in 2023, there were 274,022 accepted claims for lost time due to a workrelated injury or disease, including 32,861 from workers aged 15-24.
City aims to make Weyburn a more inclusive and accessible
Sara Parks SaskToday.ca
In an effort to become a more inclusive and accessible community, the City of Weyburn is developing its first Accessibility Plan.
A public survey launching on April 14 will help shape the plan, gathering input from residents, businesses and community organizations on where improvements are needed to make the city more accessible for all.
“The City of Weyburn has made strides in improving accessibility across many of our public spaces, but we recognize that there’s always room to do better,” said Abby Kradovill, the city’s safety coordinator.
She said that some facilities already have accessible entrances, washrooms, and designated parking, and recent infrastructure
projects have incorporated inclusive design.
“However, we also know that accessibility is not onesize-fits-all, and that lived experiences may vary,” said Kradovill. “That’s why this Accessibility Plan and the community survey are so important—they’ll help us identify where gaps still exist and how we can continue to remove barriers.”
The push for the plan comes from the Accessible Saskatchewan Act, passed in May 2023, which requires all public sector bodies to develop accessibility plans by December 2025.
“The City of Weyburn is on track to meet the provincial deadline of December 2025 to have a formal Accessibility Plan in place, as required under the Accessible Saskatchewan Act,” said Kradovill. “We’ve outlined a clear roadmap to get there.”
The Act is designed to remove and prevent barriers, ensuring all people can fully participate in daily activities, work, and play, said Paige Tenbult, the city’s communications coordinator, in a media release.
Like many municipalities, Weyburn is in the early stages of crafting its plan.
“We’re confident that the work we’re doing now—with community consultation and crossdepartment collaboration—will position us well to meet the requirements,” said Kradovill. “That said, yes, there is still meaningful work to be done, especially around formalizing processes, policies, and accessibility standards across all city services and facilities. This plan will lay the foundation for long-term, sustained progress.”
The Accessibility Plan will focus on compliance with provincial law, equal participation, and fostering a community culture rooted in respect and diversity.
“We’re currently in the initial planning and consultation phase, which includes working closely with people with disabilities, community groups, and stakeholders to identify existing barriers,” said Kradovill. “From there, we’ll move into drafting the plan this spring and summer and then open it up for public feedback in the fall. Our goal is to finalize and begin implementing the plan by the end of 2025.”
The 5th Weyburn Scouts recently hosted a Club Car rally.
Sara Parks SaskToday.ca
EDITORIAL
FROM THE SIDELINES: QUIET AS A COMMODITY?
Norm Park/SaskToday.ca
He wasn’t that tall, but appeared to be strong, sturdy, standing beside me in casual vacation-like attire. We exchanged grins and those basic words of greeting when one meets a stranger who looks like someone worth engaging in conversation.
I don’t remember his name, but my first impression was borne out. He was an interesting guy.
Let’s call him Jack for the sake of this story.
Why he was standing at a newspaper’s reception counter in an east-central Saskatchewan town was intriguing. He didn’t necessarily look out of place, but rather, just interesting to the point I couldn’t resist the opportunity to engage him in a chat.
Jack was picking up the local newspaper, having spotted the business sign on a secondary street in Wynyard. His wife and teen-aged son were somewhere else downtown.
Jack stated they were on vacation, he and his wife were enjoying the Saskatchewan scene for a second time and this time with their son.
He told me he was a fire and rescue service captain in the bustling city of Hong Kong. He was the leader in one of about a dozen or more stations in that city.
Not wishing to engage in a formal interview, Jack was still willing to chat a bit about this chaotic job.
He told me how they dispatched personnel and equipment to fire and/or rescue operations. First, there would be a couple of guys with minimal (but vital) materials heading to the scene on a motorcycle since that was the best way to arrive at a situation in the most efficient manner due to the heavy traffic and the inability to move over to allow fire trucks to travel quickly.
The two forerunners would assess the situation
and quickly report back to the station. If the event was significant, then small units, probably ¾ ton trucks with fire fighting and rescue equipment would be deployed followed by the larger, traditional units.
“We learn a lot about rescue operations,” he explained. “So often a fire will bring all kinds of challenges.” He said that building codes and permits didn’t mean much. They could arrive at a 10-story building with a clothing manufacturer on the first floor, a paint factory on the third and a fireworks assembly on the sixth.
So in their world, the words cope, training and reaction meant a lot.
“We do a lot of rescues on the hillsides, carrying older people down, out of danger or out in the harbour, it’s a whole different story,” he added.
There could be a fire, drowning, sinking boat … all kinds of things to keep the day interesting and emotional.
There were usually six to 12 call-outs per day at each station. It could turn hectic.
“So why are you here, in the middle of Saskatchewan for crumb’s sake?” I asked.
“The quiet,” he said with an even bigger smile.
“I love the quiet. I am near retirement. We get one good paid vacation per year for a family and that offer expires when your kids turn 18,” he told me. “My son is 16, I wanted him to experience this.”
He and his wife had found Saskatchewan to be filled with and willing to share these special moments.
With all the cacophony surrounding the daily life and work in Hong Kong, the constant 24-hour traffic, continual construction and working noises, sirens, yelling and general street business bustle, you
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try to learn to ignore, he said, but you never get there completely, at least he hadn’t.
Now they were on their way to a place around Tisdale, where they would get to stay at a place, something like a ranch. They had been there on the first trip.
“It’s quiet. We can hear bees humming and the birds, and sometimes these animals … coyotes,” he said. They would climb on a horse once or twice and go for a ride and listen to the wind through the poplar leaves, the quiet movements of cattle grazing, and that’s it. Nothing more was required to stimulate the brain and body, just joyous moments of quiet or at least sounds of serenity, not chaos. Quiet meals. No bedtime bedlam.
Even in our town of just under 2,000 in population, he was enjoying the relatively peaceful pace and the people who passed by and said “Hi” even though they didn’t have a clue who he was and it didn’t matter.
I told him that was a Saskatchewan thing, hopefully adopted by other centres.
It was time for him to go look for his wife and son. He wasn’t worried about not being able to find them. So that was it. They were on vacation, seeking quiet.
Once he left our office, I couldn’t help but think, I wonder if Saskatchewan Tourism ever thought of that as a selling point? It seems we can have a lot of quiet if we want it. I’m not sure it should have a price tag, but apparently, it does have advantages for some visitors.
Writer’s note: Since this event occurred several years ago, quotations are paraphrased since no notes were taken, but were used to portray the true essence of the conversation.
An additional 16 locations will benefit from Saskatchewan’s Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive (RRRI) program to now extend eligibility to a total of 70 communities. This incentive of up to $50,000 for a three-year return-in-service is offered to new, permanent full-time employees in nine high-priority health occupations in rural and remote communities experiencing or at risk of service disruptions due to staffing challenges.
“This incentive program has proven to be a great success in attracting highly sought after health care workers such as nurses, medical technicians and continuing care assistants, where they are most needed in our rural communities,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Lori Carr said. “We continue to deliver on growing our health care workforce to provide improved access and quality of care to patients across the province.”
More than 420 hard-to-recruit positions have been filled as a direct result of the RRRI program, which is key to stabilizing and strengthening health care services in rural and northern communities.
The 16 new communities where the in-
centive is now offered are: Arborfield, Balcarres, Beechy, Candle Lake, Carrot River, Central Butte, Cut Knife, Elrose, Foam Lake, Grenfell, Kerrobert, Maryfield, Pinehouse Lake, Raymore, Spiritwood and Wakaw. A complete listing of the 70 communities and the nine occupations, as well as details on eligibility and how to apply are available at Saskatchewan Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive.
Funding of $8.7 million is provided in 2025-26 for the RRRI program. This includes a $1.8 million investment for an additional intake round of up to 180 new applicants, and continued funding of $6.9 million for existing recipients completing their second and third year in the workplace.
The RRRI program has been an important component of the province’s Health Human Resources Action Plan to recruit, train, incentivize and retain more health professionals, which has now entered its third year. The 2025-26 Health budget provides a $13 million for health care incentive programs, including the Rural and Remote Recruitment Incentive, Rural Physician Incentive Program and incentives for specialists.
Variety of games held at the Wheatland Senior Centre
The Weyburn Wheatland Seniors Centre held a variety of games during the week of March 31 to April 4, with the following results.
The winners of Spades on March 31 were Connie Boucher in first; Sherrill Taylor in second; Sheila Greiner in third and Sheila Wendel in fourth.
In Kaiser on April 1, first went to Shirley Sparks and Rose Levesque; second wasJean Fahlman and Theresa Istace; third was Jeanne Molnar and Elaine Frasz; fourth was Marie Marcotte
and Eva Morley; and fifth was Marg Schultz and Fay Johnson.
The winners of Canasta on April 2 were Jean Reich in first; Phyllis Lindskog in second; Gerry Thompson in third; Eveline Porte in fourth and Shirley Cherpin in fifth. In Hi-Low Whist on April 2, first went to Marge Schultz and Fay Johnson; second went to Cris Herlick and Phyllis Lindskog; third went to Brenda Paul and Dave Frayn; and fourth went to Sharon Eggum and Gladys Lokken. The winners of Thurs -
day crib on April 3 were Marie Marcotte and Ruth Boren in first; Cheryl Vogel and Emily Zyla in second; Garth White and Dave Frayn in third and Rose Lavesque and Shirley Sparks in fourth.
In Friday Bridge on April 4, first went to Jeannie Molnar; with Betty Knibbs in second; Lucie Nickle in third and Erskine Sandiford in fourth.
The games held during the week of April 7 to April 11 had the following results.
The winners of Spades on April 7 were Erskine
Sandiford in first; Roseline Levesque in second, and Theresa Istace in third.
In Kaiser on April 8, first went to Jean Fahlman and Theresa Istace; second was Elaine Frasz and Jeanne Molnar; third was Rose Levesque and Shirley Sparks; and fourth went to Marg Schultz and Fay Johnson.
The winners of Canasta on April 9 were Kathy Carson in first; Gerry Thompson in second; Phyllis Lindskog in third; Brenda Paul in fourth and Eveline Porte in fifth.
In Hi-Low Whist on
and Hudson learn a
April 9, first went to Brenda Paul and Dave Frayn; second went to Gladys Lokken and Sharon Eggum; third went to Emily Zyla and Janet van Winkoop and Emily Zyla.
The winners of Thursday crib on April 10 were Cristine Herlick and Phyllis Lindskog in first; Brenda Paul and Shirley Sparks in second and Cheryl Vogel
and Emily Zyla in third. In Friday Bridge on April 11, first went to Jeannie Molnar; with Dave Frayn in second and Lucie Nickle in third.
The winners of Shuffleboard on April 11 were Yvette Bauche and Kathryn Groshong in first; June Irvine and Coral Schindler in second and Ron Frayn and Will Van Roon in third.
NOTICE OF PREPARATION OF ASSESSMENT ROLL Rural Municipality of Wellington No. 97
Notice is hereby given that the assessment roll for the R.M. of Wellington No 97 for the year 2025 has been prepared and is open to inspection in the office of the assessor from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on the following days, Monday to Friday, April 7th to June 6th, 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 wishing to discuss the notice of assessment or pot ent ia l appeal ma y co nt ac t th e as se sso r at th e RM of Wellington No 97, Box 1390, Weyburn SK S4H 3J9. A notice of appeal, accompanied by a $50.00 appeal fee which will be returned if the appeal is successful, must be filed with the Secretary of the Board of Revision, Nicolle Hoskins, Western Municipal Consulting Ltd., Box 149, Meota, SK S0M 1X0, by the 6th day of June, 2025
Dated this 7th day of April, 2025.
Michelle Klein Assessor
Claire, Kale, Ava
Ukrainian dance at St. Michael School.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
SPORTS
Weyburn Red Wings advance to SJHL finals
Keaton and Asher put their catching skills to the test, as they attended a tryout for Weyburn Minor Baseball, held recently at the Credit Union Spark Centre.
The Weyburn Red Wings are advancing to the final round of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League playoffs.
The Red Wings will now face up against the Melfort Mustangs in a quest to claim the SJHL championship title.
The best-of-seven series against Melfort starts on the road on Friday, April 18 and Saturday, April 19. Game three and four will be hosted in Weyburn on Wednesday, April 23 and Thursday, April 24.
In game action against Flin Flon in the semi final series, the Red Wings won 3-2 in overtime, during game six held Monday night. This was the muchneeded victory to end the semi final series.
The Bombers opened up scoring with one goal in the first period. In the second period, Max Chakrabarti scored during a powerplay goal, assisted by Jerome Maharaj and Cyprus Smith-Davis. Lucas Schmid then scored an un-
assisted short-handed goal to give Weyburn a slight lead in the game.
An early Bombers goal in the third period tied up the game. In the overtime period, Josh Sale scored, off assists by Dallen Oxtelgren and Simon Martin, to secure the Weyburn win.
Angelo Zol was in net for the Red Wings for game six, and stopped 41 out of 43 attempts.
In game five of the series, the Bombers had won 6-1 on home ice. They had scored three times in the first period, once in the second and twice in the third period. The lone Weyburn goal was scored by Liam Fitzgerald in the second period, with an assist by Josh Karman.
Ty Matonovich was in net for the majority of the game, and stopped 29 out of 32 attempts. Zol was put in between the pipes for 8:15 minutes, and stopped four out of seven shots.
In game four of the series, the Bombers won 5-1. They had scored once in
the first period, and twice in the second period, with two more goals in the third period. The lone Weyburn goal was scored by Ethan Dekay in the second period, off assist from Jerome Maharaj and Josh Karman. Zol was in net for the Red Wings, and stopped 32 out of 37 shots.
Earlier in the series, the Red Wings won 4-1 in game three, held on April 8. Ethan Dekay opened scoring for Weyburn in the first period, off assists from Simon Martin and Dallen Oxtelgren.
In the second period, Jaxson Ruthven scored a goal, assisted by Jerome Maharaj and Blake Betson, quickly followed by a goal from Ethan Dekay, assisted by Braigh LeGrandeur.
The lone goal for the Bombers was scored in the third period. Ethan Dekay scored his second of the night later in the period, assisted by Drew Molde. Zol was in net for Weyburn, stopping 45 out of 46 shots.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
Members of the Weyburn Red Wings celebrate after scoring a goal in game three of the best-of-seven series against the Flin Flon Bombers.
Photo – Courtesy Highway 39 Photography
Southeast
Saskatchewan Oil Industry Update
April 2025
Energy and resource sectors continue to deliver
The 2025-26 Budget reaffirms Saskatchewan’s position as a global leader in sustainable natural resource development.
“Saskatchewan’s energy, mining and forestry sectors continue to deliver for the people of Saskatchewan,” Energy and Resources Minister Colleen Young said. “The 2025-26 Budget ensures that strategic investments in geoscience, oil and gas, and critical minerals will continue to support industry and enhance the lives of Saskatchewan residents.”
This year’s budget includes $350,000 in funding for the Public Geoscience Initiative. This investment will encourage exploration and promote new critical mineral discoveries by providing industry access to new, high-quality geoscience information across Saskatchewan. This is the second year of funding under the initiative, a $10 million commitment over 10 years that will help identify new critical mineral potential in the province as part of Securing the Future: Saskatchewan’s Critical Minerals Strategy. The existing Oil Infrastructure Investment Program will be renewed for an additional four years to March 31, 2029, to support expanded market access for Saskatchewan oil and carbon dioxide pipeline infrastructure.
Saskatchewan is also
delivering a new incentive to support the goal of increasing oil production to 600,000 barrels per day by 2030. The Low Productivity and Reactivation Oil Well Program is an incentive program designed to encourage industry to make new capital investments in low-producing and inactive horizontal oil wells. The goal is to create incremental oil production and revenue from existing wells.
At the same time, Saskatchewan will also modernize business processes through $1.6 million in enhancements to information technology systems, which will improve oil and gas industry reporting requirements in support of regulatory oversight, risk mitigation and safety efforts. The Incident Reporting Enhancement Project and the Pipeline License Multi-Substance Project will contribute to the delivery of Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan commitments and position the province as a leader in sustainable resource development. With its world-class natural resource industries, competitive exploration support programs and transparent regulatory environment, Saskatchewan is the best place in Canada to invest. A strong and growing economy allows the government to deliver the health, security and social programs that Saskatchewan residents have come to expect.
Many service rigs are standing quiet right now, with road bans currently in place.
Whitecap, Veren merge in $15B deal to form top oil producer
Whitecap Resources Inc. and Veren Inc. have announced a strategic merger in a $15-billion all-share transaction, creating a leading light oil and condensate producer with assets concentrated in Alberta’s Montney and Duvernay formations. Announcement was made March 10.
Under the agreement, Veren shareholders will receive 1.05 Whitecap shares for each Veren share held. The combined company will operate under the Whitecap name, with Whitecap’s management team at the helm and four Veren directors, including Veren’s current president and CEO, Craig
Bryksa, joining Whitecap’s board. The deal is expected to close before May 30, 2025.
“We are excited to bring together two exceptionally strong asset bases to create one world-class energy producer with one of the deepest inventory growth sets of both liquids-rich Montney and Duvernay opportunities, along with conventional light oil opportunities in some of the most profitable plays in the Western Canadian basin,” said Whitecap president and CEO Grant Fagerheim. “We look forward to bringing Whitecap and Veren together and providing increased value to both sets of sharehold -
ers well into the future.”
The merger will make the new entity the largest landholder in the Alberta Montney, the second-largest across the Montney and Duvernay fairways, and a key light oil producer in Saskatchewan. It will also rank as the seventh-largest producer in the Western Canadian Sedimentary Basin, with a projected production of 370,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day (boe/d), of which 63 per cent will be liquids.
Bryksa said the combination “unlocks significant value for all shareholders” by increasing scale, inventory, and free funds flow gen
eration. “With enhanced scale, deep inventory, and increased free funds flow generation, we’re building a business with a differentiated competitive advantage,” he said.
The transaction is expected to generate $200 million in annual syner-
gies and strengthen the company’s balance sheet, with an initial net debtto-funds flow ratio of 0.9 times, improving to 0.8 times by the end of 2026. Whitecap’s annual dividend of $0.73 per share will be maintained, representing a 67 per cent in -
crease in base dividend for Veren shareholders. The deal remains subject to shareholder and regulatory approvals. Both companies’ boards have unanimously recommended shareholder approval at special meetings scheduled for May 6.
Saskatchewan joins Governor’s coalition on energy security
Saskatchewan Exports
21 Million Cubic Metres of Oil to the United States Annually, Which is Essential for North American Energy Security
Premier Scott Moe announced that Saskatchewan will be joining the Governor’s Coalition on Energy Security, further ensuring energy security across North America.
“It is an honor to join the Governors Coalition for Energy Security and I thank Governor Landry for the invitation,” Moe said.
“Saskatchewan is abundant
in oil, high-grade uranium, and critical minerals, which are vital to both our local economy and North American energy security. As a stable and dependable partner, Saskatchewan plays a crucial role in securing energy resources, strengthened by the strong relationship we maintain with our neighbors to the south.”
Premier Moe joins Governor Landry and 12 other colleagues: Governor Kay Ivey (AL), Governor Brian P. Kemp (GA), Governor Bill Lee (TN), Governor Eric J. Holcomb (IN), Gov-
ernor Mark Gordon (WY), Governor Huckabee Sanders (AR), Governor Tate Reeves (MS), Governor J. Kevin Stitt (OK), Governor Glenn Youngkin (VA) and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. Former Governor Kristi Noem (SD) and Sununu were initial members.
Saskatchewan exports 21 million cubic metres of oil to the United States (U.S.) annually. The province is one of the most attractive jurisdictions for oil investment thanks to its stable regulatory environment and commitment to
sustainable resource development.
Saskatchewan is the second Canadian province to join the Governors’ Coalition for Energy Security, which aims to enhance and protect energy options. This will lead to lower energy costs, increased reliability, sustainable economic development and responsible management of energy resources.
“Saskatchewan’s joining demonstrates the power of the principles and vision of GCES, and the growing recognition in govern-
Oil and gas offering fetches nearly $12M
SaskToday.ca
The Government of Saskatchewan’s Crown oil and natural gas public offering, held April 1, raised $11,983,131 for the province, with all four bid areas – Estevan, Kindersley, Lloydminster and Swift Current – generating revenue.
The Ministry of Energy and Resources posted 54 parcels for sale, of which 47 received acceptable bids, covering an area of 22,340.571 hectares.
The southeast region generated the largest share of the revenue, bringing in $8,574,009 for 26 leases and two exploration li -
cences, covering an area of 5,902.150 hectares.
Synergy Land Services Ltd. made the highest bid and dollarsper-hectare bid for a parcel –$1,533,771.82, or $6,758.55 per hectare – for a 226.938 hectare lease southeast of Lampman.
Elk Run Resources Ltd. had the highest bid for an exploration licence, offering $856,917, or $171.68 per hectare, for a 4,991.362-hectare licence southwest of Eatonia.
Metropolitan Resources Inc. offered the highest dollars-per-hectare bid for an exploration licence, bidding $715.11 per hectare
for a total of $833,156 on a 1,165.075-hectare licence southeast of Maidstone.
Overall, the Kindersley area generated $1,715,310 in revenue, while the Lloydminster area brought in $1,244,042. In the Swift
ments in both the U.S. and Canada that energy issues are fundamental to the economic and day-to-day wellbeing of our citizens,” Gov. Landry said. “We welcome Premier Scott Moe and the talent, input and insight he will bring to help us all enhance and protect energy options, lower energy costs, and increase reliabil-
ity for our people.”
The Government of Saskatchewan recognizes the benefits of the integrated United States-Canadian energy sector and values its trading relationship. This collaboration is crucial to strengthening key relationships and emphasizing how highly integrated both economies are.
Current area, bidding generated a total of $449,767 in revenue, with Saturn Oil and Gas Inc. making the highest offer at $371,643.
This is the first of six oil and gas public offerings for the 2025-26 fiscal year.
The Weyburn Agricultural Society received $25,000 from the UFA Foundation to upgrade Weyburn’s Exhibition Hall, which has served generations of people year-round since 1960. This grant was part of the The UFA Agricultural Community Foundation Rural Communities Grant. Pictured are, back row, from left: Kimberly MacDonald, Community Investment Manager, UFA; Leanne Anderson, Weyburn Agricultural Society Board Member; and Kent Fisher, Vice President Weyburn Agricultual Society. In the front row are Ken Vogel, Delegate, UFA; Jason Peterson, Petroleum Agent, UFA: Trish Nixon, External Affairs, UFA: Jennifer
Board Chair, UFA Agricutural Community Foundation; Tyler Metheral, President Weyburn Agricultural Society; Marla Holdstock, Weyburn Agricultural Society Board Member; and Stacy Kosior, Weyburn Agricultural Board Member.
Work continues, support remains to bring MRI to the southeast
David Willberg SaskToday.ca
The effort to bring an MRI scanner to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Estevan continues, but there is still lots of work, including fundraising, to be done.
A pair of meetings were held earlier in April regarding the project. During the first, the St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation board of directors approved the purchase agreements for the system and the construction.
Purchase orders were issued during the second meeting to Siemens Healthcare Canada for the MRI system and to SDI Canada for the modular MRI Cassette room, where the scanner will be located, and construction project.
“We’re committed now, moving forward, with the project,” said Corey Miller, the president and CEO of Emmanuel Health.
The project’s estimated cost is below the
projected budget of $6.3 million, Miller said, but the goal remains to raise $6.5 million to have a contingency. If there is extra money, it would stay in an endowment fund for future MRI needs.
“We might need to buy an extra coil, or we might need some extra equipment that’s part of the MRI that we decide we want two years from now or a year from now, or it might be future needs for the system.”
According to the foundation’s website, as of April 10, more than $5.2 million had been raised, which is 81 per cent of the goal.
He pointed out the contract management team will be using local contractors as they go through the project.
“Things like doing the excavation, pouring the concrete, pulling all of the electrical and upgrading our generators, they will be using local contractors, and they will be the ones co-ordinating the whole
project,” said Miller.
“This is a community project, and it was important to us that we were partnering with a vendor who has done these projects before and who will be using local contractors.”
Siemens, meanwhile, likely has the largest market share of MRIs for North America and globally.
St. Joseph’s was part of the provincial request for proposals that the Saskatchewan Health Authority Department of Medical Imaging does annually, he said. They put out a large tender for medical imaging equipment that included MRIs, CT scanners, nuclear medicine cameras, x-rays, portable x-rays and ultrasounds.
“We were part of the MRI selection committee, so we got to participate in reviewing all of the binders and reviewing all of the options. There is now a provincial contract that allowed us to choose one or two vendors. There’s two successful vendors,
and through our selection process, chose Siemens Canada.”
Construction design planning is set to start in May, Miller said, and they’re hoping to be fully operational in the spring of 2026.
“We still have to work through all of our staffing needs, but we have been having success talking to MRI techs that are in the area, or who are going to be available by the time we open.”
Even though the full $6.5 million isn’t in place, when dealing with purchase agreements, the hospital had to put money down.
“We’re not waiting to start. We’re going to be raising money while we’re building.”
Hospital executive director Candace Kopec was pleased with the meetings that took place in Estevan and the decisions made, and is looking forward to the construction of the building that will house the MRI. Kopec said an
addition is needed in the diagnostic imaging area to accommodate the MRI.
“We wouldn’t have adequate space within the facility for an MRI, as well as the construction needs, due to the fact that the MRI is a big magnet. Some specific needs are required, which is why … we feel comfortable moving forward that SDI is going to meet our needs for this MRI project,” said Kopec.
She noted the hospital has expanded significantly over the past five years, including the addition of 32 addictions treatment beds.
Having Miller as part of the MRI push has been a big help, she said. Prior to joining Emmanuel Health, Miller was involved with medical imaging and nuclear medicine for the Saskatchewan Health Authority.
“He has been involved with five MRIs in the province, because this was his previous portfolio,” said Kopec.
So many people have been involved with getting the campaign to this point, Kopec said, starting with Elaine Walkom and her $2 million donation in memory of her late husband Grant.
“For a community to raise over $5.2 million in one year, that’s unheard of. I’ve never seen anything like it,” said Kopec.
The southeast had some of the longest MRI wait times in the province, Kopec said, and St. Joseph’s is bringing a service to the region that will help with diagnosis and treatment while reducing travel times.
St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation executive director Lori Gervais is thrilled with the sup -
port that continues to roll in, but the fundraising work continues, and the foundation is open to ideas. “There is future costs, always,” said Gervais. “When the final bill comes in for this entire project … if we have extra that gets invested for the future, especially with technology of this sort … there’s always upgrades, there’s always software, there’s always things like that, so … it would be designated for future costs of this project.”
The foundation has also changed the name of the campaign to Together We Will from Together We Can to reflect the promise of the project and the progress made.
Gervais was pleased with how the meeting went, and that Miller and Emmanuel Health want to keep the foundation in the loop about the contracts because the foundation is doing the work with the fundraising.
“I honestly feel like there’s been a lot of people inquiring and interested in the project, and following along and seeing that there are things moving forward, and the project itself is coming to reality. You’re going to be able to see it soon. You’re going to be able to see the progress being made and the slab being poured and the construction started,” said Gervais.
“There are people who have been interested in that progress and maybe will step forward to donate at that time when they see that this is a forreal thing.”
The hospital foundation is also preparing for the annual Radiothon for Life, which will take place May 21 and will support the MRI campaign.
Cadets step into history during Vimy commemoration in Estevan
Anastasiia Bykhovskai /SaskToday.ca
Over 90 air and army cadets from across Saskatchewan took a powerful journey back in time during the Vimy Remembered interactive presentation held at the Royal Canadian Legion Estevan Branch #60. Led by Capt. Craig Bird, the session brought to life the Battle of Vimy Ridge - a milestone moment in Canadian history - through hands-on learning, group exercises and vivid storytelling.
Cadets from Regina, Moose Jaw, Melville, Yorkton and local Estevan units gathered to not only hear about the April 1917 battle, but to experience it in a way that bridged over a century of time.
Throughout the morning, Bird was dressed as General Sir Arthur Currie, who “was the one that came up with the master plan to train all of the Canadian troops and put forth some of these new and innovative ideas that hadn’t been done before to train the Canadian troops to have a higher likelihood of success.”
Captain Craig Bird led Vimy Remembered presentation that brought to life the Battle of Vimy Ridge - a milestone moment in Canadian history.
Anastasiia Bykhovskaia
For the event, Bird took on the role of historical interpreter, explaining the planning and execution behind the Canadian corps’ assault on the German-held ridge in France.
Cadets stood around a massive floor map – an authentic replica of the First World War battlefield map – and were divided into groups representing the four Canadian divisions. Using coloured chains, pylons and historical trench maps, they plotted division movements and tracked key advances made between April 9 and 12, 1917.
Bird explained how Vimy Ridge had been transformed into a nearly impenetrable German stronghold, reinforced with deep trenches, tunnels, machine gun nests and artillery.
“Germany had captured the ridge early in the war and transformed it into a strong defensive position,” Bird said.
Previous Allied assaults had failed, costing hundreds of thousands of lives. The Canadians’ success was no accident, he emphasized; it was the result of innovation, intelligence and intensive training.
“They trained. That’s what they did for four months before the battle,”
Bird told the cadets. “You wanted to keep those men alive as best as you could, so what do you do? You train.”
He described the implementation of a “creeping barrage” – a tactic where artillery fire moved forward in timed intervals just ahead of advancing infantry.
“The artillery would keep the Germans in their dugouts,” Bird explained. “And as they advanced, the artillery would advance. You had to have very highdisciplined troops to be able to do that.”
Cadets also learned about the harsh realities of trench warfare, including trench foot, unsanitary conditions, constant shelling and frigid weather.
“The winter of 1916-17 was the coldest in written memory in France and in Flanders,” Bird said, recounting soldiers’ struggles in wet, muddy trenches and freezing conditions.
In a hands-on exercise, cadets used the large-scale map to place markers on significant locations such as Petit Vimy, Hill 145, Vimy itself and other key objectives during the battle. They were guided through how terrain affected movement and how steep elevation near Hill 145 made the Fourth Division’s task especially deadly.
“The fourth Canadian division’s objective was Hill 145, the highest and most important feature on the whole ridge,” Bird noted, detailing the brutal fighting required to secure the position.
The educational session concluded with a reminder of the human cost: more than 3,500 Canadians killed and about 7,000 wounded in the span of just a few days. The battle is widely viewed by historians as a defining moment for Canada’s national identity.
Following the presentation, cadets marched to Estevan’s cenotaph and Soldiers’ Tree Monument to honour the local soldiers who served and sacrificed in the Great War. The act of remembrance brought full circle the history they had just explored, connecting the names carved in stone to the battlefields studied on the map.
“Vimy Ridge symbolizes both the bravery of Canadian troops and the impact of World War I on Canada,” Bird said in a post on social media, promoting the event. “Commemorated annually on April 9, Vimy Ridge Day reflects on the sacrifices and achievements of Canadian soldiers.”
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Weyburn Big Brothers Big Sisters discontinuing after school program
Sara Parks
SaskToday.ca
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Weyburn is discontinuing its After School Program at the Spark Centre and say the pro -
gram won’t continue in the fall of 2025. The aim of the After School program was to provide quality child care and programming based on explorative, active and
creative play in order to stimulate children’s ability to grow socially, physically, intellectually and emotionally.
“This pilot After School Program has been
a meaningful opportunity to support young people in our community, and we are incredibly proud of the impact it has had,” said Big Brothers Big Sisters Weyburn in a statement
A Grade 1 class from Assiniboia Park Elementary sing for Weyburn Special Care Home residents on April 9. In front, from left, are Collins, Hudson, Stellar,
and Millie. In the back row are Cora, Hazel,
on April 8. “Unfortunately, after careful consideration, we have determined that the program is not sustainable long-term and will not continue in the fall of 2025. “We understand that this may be disappointing news, and we share in that sadness. However, our commitment to young people remains as strong as ever.”
The City of Weyburn said it extends its gratitude to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Weyburn for their dedication to supporting children and youth
in Weyburn. The city said it shares in the disappointment that the program won’t continue and they recognize the positive impact it has had on the community.
Since 1981, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Weyburn have been offering life-changing mentoring programs in Weyburn, and say they will continue to provide their In-School Mentoring Program, Community-Based Mentoring, and Group Mentoring Programs to support and empower young people in the community.
Finley, Tyce, Ernest
Brexley, Kabri, Jake, Brielle and Chloe.
Photo – Sabrina Kraft/Weyburn Review
WCS students attend Skills Saskatchewan competition
The Weyburn Skills Team spent many hours preparing to compete at Skills Saskatchewan in Saskatoon on March 28.
They competed against students from all over the province in categories such as carpentry, electrical installations, welding, dideo production, mechanical engineering CAD, and hairstyling braiding and bridal.
Every competitor gave
the most effort, learned so much and had the most amazing experience!
The Weyburn Skills Team were thrilled to come home with a silver medal in Mechanical Engineering CAD (Niegel Zagada), silver medal in Hairstyling Braiding (Olena Shved) and a gold medal in Hairstyling Bridal (Olena Schved).
Other participants had a great time at the provincial Skills Competition on Fri-
day in Saskatoon: Andrew BratrudMechanical CAD; Alex Paskiewicz and Jayden Stang- Video Production, Maddox Taillon, Electrical Installations; Brody Walter- Carpentry; Corbin Harris- Welding and Jacob Tollefson- Welding. Coaches from the Skills Team included Cody Paterson, Colton Lund, Will Gilmore and Wilf Lendrum.
Skills Team members Corbin Harris and Jacob Tollefson competed in the welding category.
Photos
Andrew Bratrud competed in mechanical engineering CAD at the skills competition.