Saskatoon's Flood Control Strategy Takes Shape with Grand Opening of Weaver Park Dry Storm Pond

Residents in Saskatoon's Avalon neighbourhood are breathing a sigh of relief as the city officially opens the newly upgraded Weaver Park dry storm pond, reducing flood risk and providing a revitalized recreational space. The park is the third project completed under the City's Flood Control Strategy (FCS), which was approved by City Council in 2018. The Government of Canada has contributed $21.6 million towards Saskatoon's Flood Control Strategy through the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund.

Key Takeaways:

• The City of Saskatoon has completed three projects under the Flood Control Strategy, with five more planned for construction between 2025 and 2027.
• The Government of Canada has contributed $21.6 million towards Saskatoon's Flood Control Strategy through the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund.
• The Weaver Park dry storm pond is the third project completed under the strategy, providing improved flood protection and a revitalized recreational space.
• The Flood Control Strategy aims to reduce flood risk in the top 10 highest risk areas of Saskatoon, with a substantial decrease anticipated once all projects are completed.
• Dry storm ponds like the one at Weaver Park hold water that would otherwise cause nearby flooding during intense rainfall, allowing it to flow into storm drains and empty into the South Saskatchewan River.
• The City of Saskatoon anticipates seeing fewer families dealing with flooded basements and costly damage once the FCS projects are completed.
• The Flood Control Strategy is a key component of building healthy, vibrant, and resilient communities, according to the Honourable Buckley Belanger, Secretary of State for Rural Development.

Statistics:

• $21.6 million: Government of Canada contribution towards Saskatoon's Flood Control Strategy through the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund.
• 3: Number of projects completed under the Flood Control Strategy to date.
• 2: Number of dry storm ponds already built under the strategy, with multiple more planned.
• 10: Number of highest risk areas in Saskatoon where flood risk is expected to decrease substantially once all FCS projects are completed.
• 2025-2027: Period during which construction will take place on five more projects under the Flood Control Strategy.

Sources:

• "News Release: City of Saskatoon Officially Opens Weaver Park Dry Storm Pond" [Not available online, however, it can be inferred this is a City of Saskatoon Public Report or Press Release]
• Government of Canada: Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund