Bands Make Concession In Dams Dispute

Bands Make Concession In Dams Dispute

Friday, May 01, 2009 at 13:33

An agreement has been reached that will see land on four Saskatchewan reserves flooded this year.

The Pasqua, Muscowpetung, Sakimay and Cowessess First Nations have all agreed to permits that authorize the flooding of their land this year so that operations at three dams can proceed.

Band officials say they are allowing this to happen because they are satisfied with the progress in negotiations with Ottawa and the province in addressing a permanent flooding arrangement acceptable to all parties.

According to a government release, the water control structures at Pasqua, Echo and Crooked lakes will begin operating to raise the water levels in these lakes for this year.

The government says operations will start this week at the Echo Lake structure first, and will raise water levels to within the normal operating range.