The Water Security Agency Amendment Regulations, 2023, formally cited as Saskatchewan Regulations 123/2023, were enacted under the Saskatchewan Water Security Act, specifically referencing Order in Council 625/2023, dated December 6, 2023. This amendment introduces changes to the existing regulations governing water security and management in Saskatchewan, updating the regulatory framework and aimed at improving the management and oversight of water resources in the province.

One of the amendments revises Section 2, particularly subclause 2(2)(l)(I), clarifying the locations from which water systems or sites may operate. The new language specifies that these systems must be wholly contained within defined municipal boundaries, which include cities, towns, villages, resort villages, hamlets, or organized hamlets as defined in The Municipalities Act. Additionally, they must be situated within designated residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, or mixed-use developments in accordance with The Planning and Development Act, 2007.

Another amendment is the introduction of the new Section 18.1, which outlines a fee structure for petitioners seeking the Water Security Agency’s assistance with drainage works. Requests must be accompanied by a fee of $1,000, which is refundable unless the request is dismissed by the corporation per clause 80(4)(b) of the Act. This provision is intended to regulate and make the request process more efficient.

Amendments to Section 19 update the definitions of “industrial water assurance” and “industrial water use,” replacing “thermal power generation” with “power generation” while explicitly excluding hydroelectric power generation. This change provides a more precise understanding of industrial water allocations and their intended uses.

A notable provision encourages sustainable practices by allowing the corporation to apply a discount of up to 50% on charges for industrial water use if the water diverted is treated municipal or industrial effluent. This incentive aims to promote the use of treated effluent over freshwater resources.

Changes to Section 20 establish a new fee framework for individuals receiving industrial water assurances, requiring them to pay 50% of the designated fee outlined in Table 2 of the regulations. This standardization seeks to promote equitable access to water resources.

By clarifying operational boundaries, establishing fees for assistance requests, redefining key terms related to industrial water use, and introducing incentives for utilizing treated effluent, the amendments aim to enhance both the sustainability and efficiency of water resource management in the province.

Saskatchewan (123/2023) December 15, 2023