With several longstanding climate records shattered in 2023, Saskatchewan’s weather was right at home in a year full of impactful events. This year, the Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC)’s Climate Reference Station (CRS), located in Saskatoon, logged record amounts of bright sunshine and daily high temperatures, and below average precipitation, making 2023 the fifth driest year on record.
The information used in this article is from SRC’s monthly weather summaries, which are developed with data recorded at our CRSs located in northeast Saskatoon and at the Conservation Learning Centre (CLC) near Prince Albert, Sask. They are managed by SRC’s climatologist, Virginia Wittrock.
January
In a welcome start to 2023, SRC’s CRS in Saskatoon and at the CLC both recorded warmer-than-average temperatures for January.
Much like January 2022, no new weather records were set. However, both CRSs did experience unusual weather. Both locations recorded snowfall that was below average for January. In total, each location recorded half the normal amount of precipitation for the month.
February
Winter was still hanging on for the month of hearts and flowers, but temperatures were rising – at least, on average.
The average daily high, daily low and daily mean were at least 1.9 Celsius (C) warmer than normal in the northern part of Saskatchewan’s agricultural zone, according to the CRS at the CLC.
Further south, the CRS in Saskatoon also recorded temperatures that were warmer than usual but less extreme.
Saskatoon reached 0.2 C on February 6, which came with freezing rain, creating slick conditions in the Bridge City.
March
March roared in like a lion, but certainly didn’t go out like a lamb.
Both of SRC’s CRSs recorded temperatures much colder than average throughout March.
The CRS near Prince Albert recorded temperatures above 0 C on only four days throughout the month. Meanwhile, the CRS located in Saskatoon recorded five days above freezing. Normally, Prince Albert records about 14 days with highs above 0 C, while Saskatoon usually records about 15 days.
Both locations experienced below-average snowfalls during March but closed out the month with a lot of snow still on the ground. The CRS at the CLC finished March with more snow on the ground than the month started with.
April
It was a chilly start to April.
Temperatures dipped into the negative double digits for the first week before rising back to average by the end of the month.
SRC’s CRS at the CLC recorded temperatures well below average, with the lowest temperatures dropping to -22.8 C on April 5.
April was also drier than usual, with the CRS in Saskatoon recording only six days with measurable rain or snowfall – making April the fourth consecutive month with precipitation well below the monthly average.
May
May was a hot one, with record-breaking temperatures seen across Saskatchewan. SRC’s CRS in Saskatoon recorded seven new records, including a new maximum daily temperature of 31.7 C on May 16.
Both of the stations recorded 21 days (from April 26 to May 16) of no measurable precipitation. Despite the dry spell, May’s precipitation was near average thanks to a thunderstorm on May 24 that brought 24.9 mm to the Saskatoon area.
June
Not to be outdone by May, June was also another warm and dry month in Saskatchewan. The CRS in Saskatoon and at the CLC recorded 20 days of temperatures above 25 C – making it the hottest June since 1988.
Both CRSs saw less precipitation than average, with the Saskatoon location seeing the fewest number of days with precipitation on record.
July
July marked the seventh consecutive month where the CRS in Saskatoon recorded drought-like conditions. Saskatoon saw less than half of the normal precipitation for July.
The Prince Albert region was not immune to the dry conditions either; however, more rainfall was recorded there than in Saskatoon. The CRS at the CLC recorded slightly more than half of the average monthly precipitation for the month.
Despite the lack of rain, temperatures were average – both CRS’s recorded temperatures close to the mean.
July marked the seventh consecutive month where the CRS in Saskatoon recorded drought-like conditions. Saskatoon saw less than half of the normal precipitation for July.
August
Contrary to the preceding months, August was wetter than usual, with both CRSs recording above-average precipitation. However, wildfire smoke blanketed the air in both locations for much of the month.
Despite the rain and wildfire smoke, summer 2023 was the thirteenth sunniest one since 1963 (according to data from the CRS in Saskatoon).
September
September was a warm, dry and sunny month in Saskatchewan.
Both stations logged over 250 hours of bright sunshine.
However, precipitation was well below average, with only 3.5 mm of rain recorded by the CRS at the CLC. The Saskatoon CRS saw wetter conditions, logging 17.5 mm.
October
October started warm and wet, with rainfall recorded at both stations. The CRS in Saskatoon recorded warm temperatures (up to 22.2 C) in early October. However, temperatures plummeted later in the month, followed by the season’s first snowfall. By Halloween, Saskatoon recorded 2 cm of snow on the ground.
November
Autumn 2023 (September, October and November) is now the warmest on record, reaching an average of 6.9 C in Saskatoon.
November was unusually dry and warm, with record-breaking daily temperatures observed at the CRS in Saskatoon. Temperatures hit 12.2 C and 11.6 C on November 18 and 19, respectively.
The average maximum temperature for November was around 0 C in Saskatoon and around -2 C at the CLC.
December
To cap off an already exceptionally dry year, December 2023 was the tenth driest on record, according to the CRS in Saskatoon.
However, the month was anything but gloomy. The CRS in Saskatoon broke several records for the most hours of bright sunshine in December.
Both CRS’s recorded temperatures much warmer than expeced in Saskatchewan, with each location stretching well above the average monthly temperature.
SRC’s CRS in Saskatoon is a principal climate reference station and is the only station of its kind in the city and one of only three like it in Saskatchewan. The station provides data to governments, universities, insurance agencies, agriculture sector clients and a wide variety of other industries. It is also a valuable research tool for evaluating long-term climate trends. SRC’s Saskatoon CRS celebrated its 60th anniversary of collecting weather data in 2023.
SRC’s CRS located at the Conservation Learning Centre celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2022 and now provides historical weather data!
CCA advancing need for foundational infrastructure and workforce capacity
By Mary Van Buren, Canadian Construction Association
Representing more than 18,000 member firms, the Canadian Construction Association (CCA) is proud of our mission to inspire a progressive, innovative and sustainable construction industry.
The key to our collective success is working with valued partner associations like the Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association (SHCA). Together, we are driving impactful change on key issues, benefitting not just our industry, but all Canadians.
2023 marked a pivotal moment for CCA and the Canadian construction industry – a year where we demonstrated our unwavering commitment to building a stronger Canada though partnership, planning and consultation.
A strong foundation for a stronger Canada
With many Canadians distressed about the housing crisis, high cost of living and economic uncertainty impacting their daily lives, CCA launched an industry call to action urging the federal government to partner with the construction industry on building “a strong foundation for a stronger Canada.” Hundreds of letters were sent to local MPs reminding them of the urgency to partner with the Canadian construction industry on a comprehensive infrastructure plan, workforce development and procurement modernization.
This campaign was bolstered by our annual Hill Day event on Nov. 7, 2023, where close to 100 industry experts met with parliamentarians to discuss the construction sector’s essential role in creating and maintaining the infrastructure Canadians use daily. This includes the foundational infrastructure at the heart of new homes and communities. Over 70 meetings were held throughout the day, followed by a reception that evening where CCA, our members and partner association leaders were joined by several parliamentarians, including the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages, Randy Boissonnault, to discuss the industry’s critical needs.
Throughout 2024, CCA will be increasing our advocacy efforts to ensure that infrastructure is not an afterthought, but rather the foundation of a stronger Canada. Collaborating with our partner associations from across Canada will continue to be a cornerstone of how we operate, maximizing our collective expertise, reach and connections to benefit the industry.
Throughout 2024, CCA will be increasing our advocacy efforts to ensure that infrastructure is not an afterthought, but rather the foundation of a stronger Canada.
Advancing a Canadian Trade Infrastructure Plan
A core focus of our 2023 advocacy efforts involved the launch of the Canada Trade Infrastructure Plan (CTIP). Working with several industry partners, we are gaining traction in our pursuit of more investment in trade-enabling infrastructure across the country.
Canada’s declining reputation as a global trade partner was a top concern at a meeting of premiers and territorial leaders last July, where the Council of the Federation unanimously endorsed CTIP’s proposals and requested a first minister’s meeting with the federal government to discuss the need for a strategic trade corridor infrastructure program. Saskatchewan is a leading exporter and stands to benefit from this strategy.
Workforce remains an urgent priority
We have laid a strong foundation with the federal government to rebuild Canada’s construction workforce through immigration programs and investing in the promotion of skilled trades. The Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship initiated a new process under the Express Entry program to welcome skilled newcomers with work experience in occupations considered a priority in Canada. Ten occupations in construction, including carpenters, plumbers, welders and electricians, are now included in the list of nearly 83 jobs.
The urgent need for skilled trade workers received nationwide attention through our partnership on the Canadian Apprenticeship Service (CAS). Within the first six months of the CAS program, millions in funds have been dispersed to eligible employers and 47 per cent of the apprentices self-identified as being from an equity- deserving group.
Fair procurement
We’ve moved the needle on improvements to procurement and project delivery by expanding our outreach to public owners and promoting the use of CCDC documents. CCA obtained a commitment from government leaders at its semi-annual Meech Lake meeting to establish a working group on procurement and project delivery methods.
CCA’s Best Practices Services is delivering new resources, some of which are being developed through our National Advisory Councils’ work. We recently produced a two-part webinar series to guide our members on the implementation of the Federal Prompt Payment for Construction Work Act. You can also watch one of our past “Read Your Construction Contact” webinars or enroll in a CCDC Seminar to help guide you on the use and application of some of the new or soon-to-be released CCDC documents. We are also making contract management simpler and more transparent with our soon-to-be-launched contract management platform, SignaSur, to guide our members on the implementation of the Federal Prompt Payment for Construction Work Act.
Stay in touch!
You can count on CCA to be a collaborative partner to SHCA, providing helpful tools, sharing best practices across the country and being your voice with the federal government.
Stay in the loop by subscribing to CCA’s newsletter, following @ConstructionCAN on Twitter or by looking up the Canadian Construction Association on LinkedIn.
In 25 years, nearly 3,000 women have opened their lives to new careers and new possibilities
By Lisa Kopochinski
Women Building Futures (WBF) has been helping women for more than 25 years. Formed in Edmonton in 1998 by a small group of social workers, WBF is a nonprofit organization that has helped many women and children rise out of poverty.
WBF’s work in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Ontario connects women with an empowered future. In 25 years, nearly 3,000 women have graduated from its programs to open their lives to new careers and new possibilities.
“While our core objective remains rooted in this mission, we have grown to offer additional employment training programs in the construction trades, driving and related industries, as well as support services to remove barriers for unemployed and underemployed women,” said Carol Moen, WBF president and CEO.
“In Saskatchewan, we have 17 Employers of Choice, and we look forward to seeing these numbers grow as we expand in the region.”
– Carol Moen, Women Building Futures
“We work with employers to lead positive change through our Employers of Choice program and Work Proud Inclusivity Training. Our Employers of Choice undergo a certification process and are committed to the change needed to see under-represented individuals in their workplaces. We also offer Work Proud Inclusivity Training workshops to provide organizations with the insight and tools to create more engaged, safe and inclusive workplaces.”
Expanding into Saskatchewan
In 2023, WBF expanded into Saskatchewan through its partnership with global resource company BHP and is offering its BHP Trades Readiness program and providing new opportunities for women in the province.
With eight team members in Saskatchewan, WBF is actively nurturing relationships with key stakeholders, connecting with industry partners, Indigenous communities, government and private sector partners.
To date, three classes of BHP Trades Readiness were offered in 2023. A total of 27 women graduated from the program last year.
The next two BHP Trades Readiness classes started in March and April. This nine-week introductory program prepares women with hands-on skills training and safety certificates to start a successful career in the mining industry.
In partnership with the Government of Saskatchewan and its industry partners Pembina, Enbridge Inc. and TC Energy, WBF ran its first Journey to Trades program in Regina in spring. Journey to Trades is an introductory trades program where students become equipped with basic hands-on skills, safety certification and experience to begin a construction trades career.
Chantelle Shebib, a journeyperson carpenter
“As we grow in the region, we encourage women to sign up for the Saskatchewan construction trades mailing list to learn more about our upcoming programs in the province,” said Moen. “We aim to connect with students wherever they are and establish a network of employers that our students can trust,” she said. “We ensure our students understand the community resources available to support their journey all throughout.”
Additionally, WBF is continuing its expansion work in Saskatchewan and Ontario through the support and funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy. The grant will allow the organization to raise awareness of opportunities for women in resilient skilled trades careers, deliver readiness programs to help women thrive in their chosen careers, connect women apprentices to WBF graduates and build more inclusive work environments for women by supporting employers in their workforce inclusion initiatives.
“Our work allows us to foster connections that support women on their path to economic security.”
– Carol Moen, Women Building Futures
What’s next?
As WBF grows in Saskatchewan, the aim is to focus on building partnerships with governments, industry, post-secondary institutions, community organizations and Indigenous communities and organizations.
“We are always on the lookout to build more sustainable and strategic partnerships,” said Moen. “More than that, we provide readiness programs to help women thrive in our training programs and chosen careers and through their careers in the trades. Employers want this and we are seeing more that want to close the gender gap through our workforce inclusion initiatives. In Saskatchewan, we have 17 Employers of Choice, and we look forward to seeing these numbers grow as we expand in the region.”
Moen adds that the long-term strategic vision is to create one million connections that elevate women’s potential by 2035.
“We are working hard to make those connections to improve the lives of the women we serve. Our work allows us to foster connections that support women on their path to economic security.”
Citizen of the Year award holds special place in community-minded construction veteran’s heart
By Jon Waldman
When most people answer the phone in the year’s waning days, it’s to finalize New Year’s Eve plans or donate to their favourite charity. For Jack Brodsky, one of the last conversations he had in 2023 was much different – it was CTV Saskatoon informing the Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association (SHCA) board member that he was named Citizen of the Year.
Brodsky is the 57th individual recognized by CTV Saskatoon.
“It’s a huge honour, obviously,” Brodsky said. “I’m thrilled about it. I’ve received so many cards and phone calls, some from people I haven’t heard from in 30 to 40 years. It’s just been great.”
The award is even more meaningful because of Brodsky’s connection with the prize.
“When I was in high school in the late 1960s, the very first Citizen of the Year was my French teacher,” Brodsky said. “I remember that the whole school was in the gym when the award was presented to him. I never thought I’d be that guy.”
The model for Brodsky’s contributions came from his family. The Brodskys first lived in Winnipeg and founded Brodsky Construction Inc. in the Manitoba capital, but they moved to Saskatoon when Brodsky was a teenager. Eventually, Brodsky’s father purchased the CHL’s Saskatoon Blades as his outlet for improving the community around him. While Brodsky started his community involvement in those early days working in construction, it was with the hockey club that Brodsky really found a calling in volunteerism.
“When I was in high school in the late 1960s, the very first Citizen of the Year was my French teacher. I remember that the whole school was in the gym when the award was presented to him. I never thought I’d be that guy.”
– Jack Brodsky
“When I was in the construction business before, I did a little bit of community stuff, but once I took over the Blades, that’s when it really started to blossom… the opportunities came forward [to] have players get out in the community and be role models,” Brodsky said.
Those opportunities were numerous, but tied with a primary point of interest – spending time with kids directly involved in hockey or the greater Saskatoon community.
“The thing with the Saskatoon Blades is you have a bunch of young men who aspire to be great players,” he said. “We’re big on staying in school and getting their education, but there’s also a big opportunity to not only promote the hockey club but to get players out into the community – to hospitals, visiting kids, going to schools and minor hockey schools… we were getting the name of our hockey club out there and also able to do some good… ”
The most significant impact, perhaps, was not in the individual effort Brodsky made in his position with the Blades, but in how he inspired countless players through the group efforts that his team took on over the years.
“There were dozens. I was always very impressed,” Brodsky said. “These were kids between 16 and 20 years old that were playing on our team. Many of them, once they saw the opportunity, felt like they were doing some good in the world. Many took to it and continued after they were done with our club.”
A road of commitment
Hockey is just one of Brodsky’s outlets for his volunteerism. Before selling the original Brodsky Construction Inc. in 1996, he was involved with SHCA. When Brodsky Construction Inc. was re-established in 2013, Brodsky reinvigorated his ties to the organization.
“I’ve always felt that being at that level, you have an opportunity to talk to people in government… people who have say in things and influence, and [you can] make a difference. That’s always been my goal,” he said. “I just think it’s important that, if you’re going to try to be part of industry, you try to help make that industry be as good as it can be.”
That commitment is even more remarkable when considering the near 20-year departure from heavy construction meant Brodsky’s return came with changes that he had to adjust to. While others may have shied away from additional duties within their field, Brodsky felt that keeping close ties at the association level was integral despite the need to learn the new lay of the land quickly.
“In our industry, you get so busy doing the business itself that it’s hard to get involved in some of these things, [but] we get really good representation,” he said. “We get a lot of young people on our board and [people] who want to contribute. It’s just really fun to be working with them.”
Brodsky’s current work with Brodsky Construction Inc. is largely in business development and ties in smoothly with his involvement in community organizations and work on various special projects. Along with his position with SHCA, Brodsky joined the Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board’s board of directors in 2022 and previously served with the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce.
One of Brodsky’s proudest accomplishments is his work with the Restorative Action Program (RAP), including being a past chair. As described by the program’s organizers, Saskatoon Rotary, on their website, RAP “deals with bullying, physical violence, crime, mental health, substance abuse, and suicide and self-harm – with programming delivered to over 8,000 youth in Saskatoon schools.”
“For me, that’s been the biggest [accomplishment],” Brodsky said. “When I was a young fella in high school, life was a little bit complicated, but I think life is extremely complicated for kids now, so we’re helping them make a difference. It’s something I’m really proud of.”
Brodsky’s commitment to his community and province doesn’t end with the Citizen of the Year award.
“I’m 71 now, and I don’t have the same energy I once had. But if [there are] things I can do to help out, I’m always willing,” he said. “I’ve always had a great feeling about helping youth out and giving them a leg up, so I’ll see where that takes me.”
Looking back at provincial budgets from the last decade
By Martin Charlton Communications
Familiarity can be comforting – except when looking at a provincial budget in a province focused on growing.
The numbers within Saskatchewan’s provincial budget this year for the Ministry of Highways remain the same. That portion of the budget looks very similar to budgets all the way back to 2015.
The Saskatchewan Heavy Construction Association (SHCA) promotes investing in highway infrastructure to help the province grow trade, which in turn grows the economy. There is a return on investing in highways as trade infrastructure.
Investing in highways that allow for the efficient transportation of people and goods enables trade, which encourages further economic growth. That economic growth then increases revenues to the provincial government to support spending in areas such as healthcare, education and social programming. That is investing to encourage growth.
The theme of this year’s budget was “Classroom, Care and Communities.” Nearly 60,000 more people are using Saskatchewan’s schools, hospitals and other services since late 2018 – but responding to growth is not the same as encouraging it.
When it comes to the Ministry of Highways, the provincial government said with this year’s budget announcement that “roads and highways keep Saskatchewan residents connected and the economy growing, which is why the 2024-25 Budget makes road maintenance and safety a priority.” The money to be spent “makes our roads safer by improving key transportation corridors to continue to meet the growing needs of Saskatchewan families and communities.”
Looking back over the last five to 10 years, the cost of construction has been rising, while the money dedicated to capital within the Ministry of Highways budget has not. For a growing province, these consistent numbers barely represent maintenance and don’t reflect growth.
The money
There was less money in this year’s highways budget than last year’s. Year over year, there is a difference of $35 million.This year’s budget is $741 million, while last year’s was $776 million.
The government says the entire amount collected in fuel tax – $521.3 million – will be “enhanced with additional investments to maintain and operate Saskatchewan highways.” It will invest $617.1 million into operating, maintaining, building and improving Saskatchewan roads and highways, which it says is an increase of $21.1 million, or 3.5 per cent, for the Ministry of Highways.
The capital portion of the Ministry of Highways budget is down by $18 million compared to last year’s. This year, it is set at $404 million compared to last year’s $422 million.
“Our industry is prepared to build more than what this budget provides for capital spending,” said Shantel Lipp, president of SHCA. “Spending a minimum of $450 million would be more representative of a budget that is dedicated to growth.”
Budget year
Overall budget
Capital
2015/16
$842M
$560M
2016/17
$875.5M
$472M
2017/18
$860M
$343M
2018/19
$924M
$360M
2019/20
$706.1M
439.8M
2020/21
$782M
$411M*
2021/22
$830M
$520M
2022/23
$846M
$453M
2023/24
$776M
$422M
2024/25
$741M
$404M
*includes $53M in stimulus spending
10,000 kilometres of upgrades
Saskatchewan’s government has an annual goal of improving 1,000 kilometres of highways per year to hit a target of 10,000 km upgraded by 2030. That is in its Growth Plan for the province.
The upgrades are focused on a few areas: repaving, medium treatments, pavement sealing and Thin Membrane Surface and rural highway upgrades.
Improvements laid out in this year’s budget are for 1,100 km of provincial highways. This year, some categories saw the number of kilometres increase year over year – repaving, medium treatments and pavement sealing. Others – Thin Membrane Surface and rural highway upgrades – went down.
The province said once again it is well ahead of the pace needed to hit its 10,000-km target. Over the last five years, the province has improved 5,900 km. If the goal remains to target 10,000 km for improvement, there are 4,100 km left to improve between now and 2030. For context, Saskatchewan’s road network consists of 26,455 km of provincial highways.
Announcing projects year after year
“This year’s budget announcement wasn’t just a matter of the provincial government not keeping up,” said Lipp. “There was nothing new in it – no new work at all. Everything in it is already out.”
Every year, major projects are highlighted during budget announcements. Often, the same ones are mentioned.
For example, Highway 5 east of Saskatoon has been mentioned every year since 2018-19. Highway 5 takes drivers from Saskatoon to Humboldt, which is near the BHP Jansen mine. That is anticipated to be the world’s largest potash mine and was one of several major projects announced by private industry for Saskatchewan in recent years.
Preconstruction and design work for passing lines on this highway began in 2018-19. In the following year’s budget, there was over $60 million in funding for twinning and passing lane projects, including for Highway 5 between Saskatoon and Highway 2. Improvements to strategic transportation corridors around the province were then announced in 2020-21, which also included two sets of passing lanes and resurfacing and widening of Highway 5, plus planning for a short section of twinning between Saskatoon and the junction of Highway 2. For the next two years, those two sets of passing lands and widening were mentioned again.
In 2023, it was said that passing lanes and widening on Highway 5 east of Saskatoon to Highway 2 would be completed with plans to extend twinning on Highway 5. Now, corridor improvements have been announced for Highway 5 east of Saskatoon.
NUMBER OF KILOMETERS TO BE IMPROVED BY PROJECT TYPE
2025-24
2023-24
2022-23
2021-22
2020-21
Repaving
260
230
170
250
280
Medium treatments, like micro surfacing
365
300
550
510
460
Pavement sealing
400
340
100
225
100
Thin Membrane Surface and rural highway upgrades
58
115
200
280
120
Gravel rehabilitation
25
35
15
25
35
Looking back on highway budgets
Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan has numerous economic goals and the heavy construction industry has a role in ensuring several of them are achieved. The work the heavy construction industry undertakes contributes to other industries making advancements, so they can achieve the goals set by the province.
For example, when a canola crush facility is announced, there is earthwork necessary ahead of that facility being developed, which contributes to the goal of increasing Saskatchewan-based processing of canola grown in the province. Another goal is to double the size of Saskatchewan’s forestry sector. The heavy construction industry’s work to improve roads in northern Saskatchewan supports that goal as well.
In recent years, there have been challenges that accompanied opportunities along Saskatchewan’s path to growth. Budget announcements have reflected this.
Prioritizing safety
Safety was the theme of the Ministry of Highway’s budget announcements for several years. Major safety improvements for many of Saskatchewan’s busiest highways were highlighted when the 2018-19 budget was announced days after the Humboldt Bronco’s bus crash. That budget included $924 million for the Ministry of Highways with $360 million for capital.
“We’re pleased to see that our government continues to focus on investing in our industry, not only for enhancing safety across the province, but assuring our economy runs efficiently,” said Kevin Arneson, SHCA chairman at that time.
Looking back over the last five to 10 years, the cost of construction has been rising while the money dedicated to capital within the Ministry of Highways budget has not. For a growing province, these consistent numbers barely represent maintenance and don’t reflect growth.
Safety improvements across the provincial highway network were again the highlight for the following year. The 2019-20 budget included $706.1 million for the Ministry of Highways with $439.8 million for capital (with $89 million of that to complete the Regina Bypass in fall of 2019).
Lipp says that year’s budget was “status quo.” SHCA didn’t expect any surprises or a significant shift in infrastructure spending that year, and that’s exactly what was delivered, which the association explained could present positive outcomes but also some dramatically negative ones for the industry. It was then identified that major projects announced in 2019-20 were carried over from the previous year, meaning there was no new work available for what was already an extremely competitive market.
Stimulus spending during the pandemic
In May 2020, the province said it was releasing $300 million in new highways projects to boost the Saskatchewan economy while improving safety and capacity. These projects were part of a $7.5 billion, two-year capital plan “to build a strong Saskatchewan and stimulate Saskatchewan’s economic recovery.”
That year, SHCA applauded the provincial government for the much-needed infrastructure fund to be applied to capital projects throughout the province.
“This funding commitment is a welcome move towards hopefully maintaining and eventually growing these job numbers and getting our economy back on track,” SHCA said in a news release issued in response to that year’s budget.
“Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the provincial economy was already facing headwinds through depressed resource prices, anti-pipeline policies and rail blockades,” Lipp said at that time, pointing out that the funding for highways would help not only the heavy construction industry, but the whole province.
The 2020-21 budget had $782 million for the Ministry of Highways, with $411 million for capital. It included stimulus spending of $67 million (with $53 million of that for stimulus projects).
Even with stimulus funding, the numbers in the capital budget for the Ministry of Highways did not significantly change.
“The Ministry of Highways’ capital budget is still reflecting the remnants of the stimulus programs years later,” said Lipp. “Looking back, there were budgets prior to 2017 that were higher than what the provincial government spent when it included stimulus funding.”
For example, the capital budget for the Ministry of Highways in 2015-16 was $560 million.
Bouncing back and growing forward
The message from the province about the Ministry of Highways’ budget changed slightly in 2021.
The 2021-22 budget had $830 million for the Ministry of Highways, including $520 million in capital, which was earmarked for dozens of projects throughout the province. Many of those projects were multi-year initiatives. The number of kilometres announced for improvements as part of the Growth Plan was up to 1,350 km that year.
The province said it was investing “in Saskatchewan’s highways and roads to protect the driving public, build Saskatchewan highways and grow our economy.”
“In a time when our provincial economy is sluggish, our industry is thankful for the provincial government’s continuation of spending in our sector,” said Lipp. “We believe our industry is one that will lead us to economic stability and future growth.”
The message from the government was identical in back-to-back years. The 2022-23 budget had $846 million for the Ministry of Highways, with $453 million for capital. That was also described by SHCA as a status quo budget, with most projects already awarded and tendered in fall 2021.
“Recent announcements of major projects being built in the province will require an enormous amount of new infrastructure,” Lipp said at that time. There had been many announcements about private businesses increasing their production to meet the world’s needs and investing in capital in the province to do so. Several canola processing plants were announced at the start of the decade. Potash mines, including those owned by BHP and K+S, moved ahead with plans to increase their production. There were developments in the production of resources such as lithium, helium and more.
“Those projects are being created to bring our resources to the world and help build our provincial economy. Without proper infrastructure funding, these projects could be negatively impacted. Add[ing] to that, the province is facing unpreceded demand worldwide for our agriculture products and our producers rely on good roads to get their goods to market,” Lipp said, with regards to that budget. “There is no new funding for projects for this spring, which leaves the industry behind when there is such an urgent need for highway and infrastructure funding.”
“This year’s budget announcement wasn’t just a matter of the provincial government not keeping up. There was nothing new in it – no new work at all. Everything in it is already out.”
– Shantel Lipp, SHCA president
Beyond Saskatchwan’s borders
In 2023, the message put out by the province about the Ministry of Highways budget was that “investing in Saskatchewan’s highways and roads” will “enable the safe, reliable and sustainable movement of people and goods.”
That year, SHCA said it looked forward to discussing planning and investments over a longer term going forward, to create long-term funding commitments that would put Saskatchewan’s industry on more stable footing (as seen in Alberta and Manitoba).
Weeks after the 2023-24 provincial budget was announced, Saskatchewan signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Manitoba and Alberta in April 2023. That MOU committed the three provinces to work together to improve the transportation system and strengthen the economic corridors that support supply chains.
There are key priorities that Saskatchewan, Alberta and Manitoba share when it comes to economic corridors. Kyle Toffan, the deputy minister of the Ministry of Highways, explained more about it when he participated in a panel discussion held during SHCA’s Infrastructure Summit and Trade Show in November 2023. The theme of that panel discussion was “How Trade and Transportation Infrastructure Intersect in Canada’s Economic Growth Strategy.”
Planning, investment and partnership opportunities with the private sector are some of those key priorities. Harmonizing the regulatory environment and advocating for federal investment into economic corridors is also important.
“If Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba can find three or four quick wins, some really big-ticket items that need investment, we’ll have a much better chance at getting investment than if we went at it alone, so we are trying to figure out a went at it to co-ordinate that as well,” Toffan said during the panel discussion.
However, elections were held in Alberta and Manitoba after the MOU signing, which delayed progress on addressing the priorities. This fall, Saskatchewan will have its own election.
Infrastructure to encourage – not just respond to – growth
When announcing this year’s budget, the government pointed out that it has invested more than $13 billion in transportation infrastructure since 2008. However, Lipp says she is skeptical that voters will find that message meaningful.
“They can’t keep touting numbers from 2008 and think that folks are going to be happy about what they did as a new government,” said Lipp.
Going forward, SHCA looks forward to having productive conversations with the provincial government about the future of investing in highways as trade infrastructure that supports economic growth. In having those discussions, it will be important to remain aware of what the Ministry of Highways is facing.
During the Infrastructure Summit panel discussion, Toffan outlined the Ministry of Highways’ challenges and opportunities. They include reduced federal funding of infrastructure, strained capacity in all areas of the supply chain to develop more infrastructure, rising costs due to inflation, the impacts of the carbon tax, insufficient national trade and transportation planning and geopolitical considerations that can impact the quantity of resources, such as potash, that are needed by other nations.
“We have a huge amount of gross domestic product that depends on trade infrastructure,” Toffan said during the panel discussion. “Saskatchewan has been doing about $37 billion in trade a year and we have targets to grow that. That means more transportation infrastructure, not less.”
Some judge major investments in infrastructure projects that are expected to serve the province for 100 years after just two to three years of operation, which Toffan said is short-sighted.
“These investments are being made for our kids, our grandkids and our great grandkids, no different than the investments made in 1800s and early 1900s,” said Toffan. “We have to think differently about these investments. They are nation-building and they have the opportunity to unlock all kinds of economic potential.”
The Saskatchewan Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) released the 2023 provincial workplace injury statistics in mid-March. The Total injury rate for 2023 was 3.95 per 100 workers, an almost nine per cent decrease from 2022. From 2009 to 2023, the WCB’s total injury rate has decreased by 57.62 per cent. The 2023 total injury rate is the lowest in the province’s recorded history.
“Through the WorkSafe Saskatchewan partnership with the Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety, as a province, we are on the right track as we see our total and time loss injury rates continue to come down,” said Gord Dobrowolsky, chair of the WCB. “This is thanks to the combined efforts of workers, employers, our safety associations, safety leaders across the province and labour, including the Saskatchewan Federation of Labour and Saskatchewan Building Trades. But even one injury is too many, so there is still much to do to ensure that every worker in Saskatchewan is able to come home safely at the end of the day.”
For the fourth year in a row, 90 per cent of Saskatchewan workplaces had zero fatalities and zero injuries. In addition to the total injury rate decrease in 2023, the time loss injury rate also dropped to 1.78 per 100 workers. This represents a decrease of 12.75 per cent from the 2022 rate of 2.04 per 100 workers.
“An almost 13 per cent decrease in the time loss injury rate is certainly significant for 2023,” said Phillip Germain, CEO of the WCB. “While we are moving in a positive direction, we all need to continue prioritizing workplace safety to drive our rates even lower.”
Saskatchewan’s time loss injury rate is fourth among Canadian provinces.
“We believe every workplace incident is preventable, and serious injuries represent approximately 11 to 14 per cent of our total claims,” said Germain. “Serious injuries account for more than 80 per cent of our claim costs in the province’s compensation system each year. We will not rest until Saskatchewan records no workplace fatalities and the lowest serious injury rate in Canada. We believe we are on the right track to get there.”
Last year, WorkSafe Saskatchewan, a partnership between the WCB and the Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety, launched the 2023-2028 Fatalities and Serious Injuries Strategy. Building on the success of the first strategy, this document lays out a new approach to fatalities and serious injuries in Saskatchewan’s workplaces. The strategy is a multi-year plan that uses customer feedback and engagement, as well as claim and injury data. It outlines two key streams of work from the WCB and the Ministry of Labour Relations and Workplace Safety to reduce serious injuries and fatalities – a regulatory and enforcement stream, and a prevention and learning stream.
“The WorkSafe Saskatchewan partnership is committed to continuing to bring our injury and fatalities rates down, and keeping all workers safe on the job,” said Germain.
In 2023:
Total claims accepted decreased by 6.80 per cent to 16,143 from 17,321 in 2022. The total number of workers covered increased to 409,158 in 2023 from 400,392 the previous year.
Accepted no time loss claims decreased to 8,870 in 2023 from 9,156 in 2022.
Accepted time loss claims (excluding current-year fatalities) decreased to 7,256 from 8,148 in 2022.
There were 29 workplace fatalities in 2023 compared to 39 in 2022. This is a decrease of 25.64 per cent. These deaths occurred in a variety of Saskatchewan industries. Of the 29 fatalities in 2023, 10 were due to occupational disease (five of which resulted from exposure to asbestos), and nine were due to motor vehicle collisions. The remaining 10 fatalities resulted from medical complications due to workplace injuries, and from heart attacks and traumatic events.
“Each of these fatalities represent spouses, children, families, workplaces and communities who have been tragically impacted by these losses,” said Dobrowolsky. “We need to remember the 29 workers in our province who lost their lives because of a work-related injury last year. To honour their memories, we all must intensify our efforts to make every workplace safe from injuries and fatalities.”
Saskatchewan invests $248,000 toward women in trades
At the end of March, the Government of Saskatchewan announced a partnership with Women Building Futures to support the Journey to Trades pre-employment program that will provide women with the skills they need to start their careers in the construction trades and embark on apprenticeship.
“This investment in skills training will further support Saskatchewan’s Labour Market Strategy by ensuring residents have every opportunity to benefit from the jobs our rapidly-growing economy is creating,” Immigration and Career Training Minister Jeremy Harrison said. “This partnership with Women Building Futures will provide the opportunity for women to gain first-hand experience in the skilled trades and take advantage of the in-demand jobs being created in the construction and maintenance industries.”
The Ministry of Immigration and Career Training is investing $248,000 into the Journey to Trades program, which will support 18 participants over the next year. The program takes place in Regina, and will run for 12 weeks. Students will participate in classroom learning and receive hands-on skills development that will enable them to gain employment in entry-level positions.
“At Women Building Futures, we recognize the need to eliminate barriers for women and under-represented groups, so they can get into resilient careers that pay higher than a living wage,” said Carol Moen, president and CEO of Women Building Futures. “We help them build the skills and confidence they need to succeed and then connect our graduates with industry partners who nurture safe, equitable workplaces for women. With this investment, we are excited to grow our impact in Saskatchewan, supporting more unemployed and underemployed women on their paths to economic security.”
The Journey to Trades program will be delivered through Women Building Futures, an organization that empowers women to explore careers by providing training and supports. This collaboration provides women in the skilled trades with skills training and work experience.
Editor’s note: Turn to page 38 for an in-depth look at Women Building Futures’ expansion into Saskatchewan.
SARM responds to the 2024-25 provincial budget announcement
The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM), alongside their member RMs, emphasizes both highlights and concerns regarding rural communities across the province in this year’s provincial budget.
“[This year’s] budget includes many priorities that our members have been asking for. Although not perfect, we feel items in this budget go a long way to support our RMs and the people who live in rural Saskatchewan,” said Ray Orb, SARM president.
SARM is pleased with the increase, recognizing that RMs are a key component in driving Saskatchewan’s economy. “More funding is always welcome. RMs have a responsibility to provide a level of service and infrastructure expected by the major sectors driving Saskatchewan’s economy,” said Orb.
The municipal revenue sharing model is unique to Saskatchewan and SARM is pleased with the increased dollars being invested by the province. This funding goes a long way to supporting RMs in the future.
Agriculture is the backbone of rural Saskatchewan and SARM is pleased with the record investment in the Ministry of Agriculture this year. Key asks from SARM, such as increased Business Risk Management Programs funding, increased investment in weather stations for data collection and the commitment to irrigation are all being addressed, and SARM supports the direction the province is taking in these critical areas.
SARM has been advocating for the launch of the water management infrastructure known as the Lake Diefenbaker irrigation project. This project has been in the making for a long time and will positively impact RMs into the future, increasing crop diversity and farm profitability through irrigation.
“We appreciate the government’s recognition of the importance of this project,” said Orb. “Irrigation is a key component to economic growth in rural Saskatchewan and this project will go far in supporting that.”
Funding for rural road and bridge infrastructure is imperative for RMs to continue to provide key economic sectors with a strategic transportation network that is effective and well maintained.
While there is a modest increase in funding for the Rural Integrated Roads for Growth program, the challenges and expenses of maintaining critical rural infrastructure continue to rise and there are concerns regarding the level of investment in vital services such as roads and infrastructure. With the current inflation and the vast inventory of rural infrastructure, RMs will require stronger support going forward. SARM will continue to ask for more funding to allow RMs to renew and maintain rural roads.
“While we recognize the challenges in balancing various priorities within budget constraints, we urge the government to ensure RMs have sufficient funding to maintain critical rural infrastructure across the province,” Orb said.
Company fined $70,000 for serious workplace injury
On March 13, 2024, Sunterra Horticulture (Canada) Inc. pleaded guilty in Yorkton Provincial Court to one violation of The Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2020.
The company was fined for contravening clause 3-1 (a) of the regulations (being an employer at a place of employment, failure to provide and maintain plant, systems of work and working environments that ensure, as far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety and welfare at work of the employer’s workers, resulting in the serious injury of a worker). As a result, the court imposed a fine of $50,000 with a surcharge of $20,000, for a total amount of $70,000.
One additional charge was withdrawn.
The charges stemmed from an incident that occurred on September 16, 2021, near Hyas, Sask., where a worker was seriously injured while attempting to dislodge a pallet and bale of peat moss.
Recognizing excellence in construction: Meet the recipients of CCA’s 2023 National Awards
Sponsored by Northbridge Insurance, CCA’s National Awards ceremony was held on March 14, 2024, in conjunction with the Annual Conference in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. From innovation and environmental achievement to community leadership, world-class safety and workforce excellence, the recipients represent the industry’s best and brightest.
Congratulations to the following individuals, companies or associations for their exceptional contributions to the Canadian construction industry.
Ledcor Group of Companies, CCA 2023 Community Leader Award – sponsored by Marsh Canada Limited
Ledcor has been named one of two recipients of CCA’s Community Leader Award. The collective mission shared by Ledcor’s employees is encapsulated in the phrase “Ledcor Cares,” a testament to their commitment to community well-being and making a positive impact.
Vancouver Island Construction Association, CCA 2023 Community Leader Award – sponsored by Marsh Canada Limited
Emerging as a central force addressing substance use and overdose deaths with a groundbreaking toolkit, VICA has been named one of two recipients of CCA’s Community Leader Award.
Giatec, CCA 2023 Environmental Achievement Award – sponsored by Victaulic
Giatec was recognized for their innovative approach to sustainability. SmartMix is an AI platform that empowers ready-mix concrete producers to analyze data points across their operations efficiently, optimizing mixes for cost, cement usage and carbon dioxide emissions.
Ledcor Pipeline Ltd., CCA 2023 Excellence in Innovation Award – sponsored by Intact Surety
For their Canadian adaption of new methodology for steep slope pipeline installation, Ledcor Pipeline Ltd. was honoured with the 2023 Excellence in Innovation Award.
Kinetic Construction, CCA 2023 Gold Seal Award – sponsored by Travelers Canada
For their ongoing commitment to excellence and education, Kinetic was recognized with the CCA 2023 Gold Seal Award. A staunch supporter of Gold Seal since its inception, Kinetic has celebrated countless employees’ journeys to certification.
Graham Group, CCA 2023 National Safety Award – sponsored by Vipond Inc.
The 2023 CCA National Safety Award recognized the Graham Group for their outstanding overall approach to and success in the areas of health and safety. Actively Caring is one such example of a Graham program designed to cultivate a culture where people are actively looking out for others with courage and compassion.
Construction Association of Nova Scotia, CCA 2023 Partner Association Award
The Construction Association of Nova Scotia (CANS) is the 2023 recipient of CCA’s Partner Association Award. CANS continues to focus on building a resilient, skilled and innovative future for the construction industry in Nova Scotia through education, advocacy and industry collaboration.
Dave Filipchuk, CCA 2023 Pinnacle Leader Award – sponsored by PCL Construction
The CCA 2023 Pinnacle Leader Award recognized Dave Filipchuk. His achievements are reflected not only in his firm’s success and growth, but also in his leadership, dedication to excellence and community contributions, which position him as an exceptional leader, partner and example to all.
Ledcor Group of Companies, CCA 2023 Workforce Excellence Award – sponsored by Raise Underwriting
Underwriting for their ongoing efforts to continuously improve upon their employees’ experiences, and their commitment to a diverse and equitable workplace, Ledcor was presented with the CCA 2023 Workforce Excellence Award. Ledcor uses the phrase “True Blue” to describe its values-driven approach.
Ryan Davis, CCA 2023 Young Leader Award – sponsored by McMillan LLP
Through his impressive portfolio, his dedication to continuing education and his community spirit, Ryan Davis stands as an exemplary leader in his field and was recognized with the CCA 2023 Young Leader Award.
These recipients are raising the bar for the industry. Congratulations to all who were recognized for their outstanding achievements.
When you know what you have to say matters – and you are clear on how it matters to others – it makes it easier to speak up.
We are seeing yet another status quo provincial budget. In a growing province, we know that is not enough. This year, highways received less than it did in the 2023-24 budget. The capital budget is down $18 million, but we know our industry is prepared to build more than $404 million worth of work.
This year’s budget announcement wasn’t just a matter of the provincial government not keeping up. There was nothing new in it – no new work at all. I encourage SHCA members to read more in the article on page 24 about how this year’s budget compares to other years, back to 2018-19, and what SHCA is calling for going forward – not just for our industry, but to encourage the economic growth of our province.
I want to thank all of you who attended the MLA reception on March 4. We appreciated the opportunity to gather at the Legislative Building to catch up with one another and to also share with MLAs what we need them to know about our industry and our relationship with the provincial government.
We know we play an important role in this province achieving goals that matter to our economy and quality of life. While I am in contact, sharing and receiving information with ministry officials and Minister Carr, it is important for them to hear from you as well so they can learn how those of you on the frontlines are impacted by their decisions.
MLAs often listen to hear what is happening in their constituency, which is why it’s important that those working on projects across the province speak to elected officials. Those voters will decide this fall who will be getting the seat for that area. What affects us affects those projects.
This year’s budget announcement wasn’t just a matter of the provincial government not keeping up. There was nothing new in it – no new work at all.
I would also like to update you on a few other matters related to the federal government. We are letting the public know how our province and communities will be affected by politicians’ statements and decisions in a few different ways.
There was the statement about the funding of road infrastructure projects in Canada made by the Federal Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Steven Guilbeault. We were among many industry groups across Saskatchewan who wrote a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to ask him to clarify the federal government’s position on funding future road construction in Canada.
We reminded him and his government that Saskatchewan’s economy heavily relies on a robust network of roads because all industries and sectors depend on that road system. We pointed out that in 2022, Saskatchewan reached $52.6 billion in exports, which was the highest figure recorded in our province’s history.
We made it clear that if we were unable to upgrade and improve our network of roads in Saskatchewan, our economy would falter, leading to a decline in jobs. That letter was signed by leaders of the Construction Associations of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Auto Dealers Association, Saskatchewan Trucking Association, Regina and District Chamber of Commerce, Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce, North Saskatchewan Business Association, Saskatchewan Urban Municipalities Association (SUMA), the Association of Consulting Engineer Companies of Saskatchewan and the Prairies & Northern Canada representative of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business. At the top of the list of signatories was our association.
We have also been vocal about changes to the Canada Community Building Fund (CCBF). The CCBF is used for infrastructure projects such as roads, transportation, wastewater and sewer, fire services, and tourism and culture.
The federal government is looking at adding affordable housing to the mix. That would be a clear case of putting the cart before the horse. Building infrastructure, such as servicing lots for housing projects, comes before building units.
SUMA recently voiced concerns regarding this proposed change to the fund, which would impact decisions made by municipalities. Our association shares that concern. If new rules are implemented by including affordable housing over investment in infrastructure, municipalities will not be able to build critical projects.
The federal government will dictate what municipalities can and cannot build. The approach to addressing our infrastructure needs should be collaborative, not arbitrary. Every community has different priorities for infrastructure, and those decisions are best made through a process that includes communities.
It is important that we keep speaking up about how decisions made by elected officials affect our industry and the people who depend on the work we do. We will continue to speak up this year to draw attention to the value our industry delivers to this province and its communities, and how SHCA members’ work is relevant to the economy and quality of life of citizens.
A message from the president of the Canadian Association of Women in Construction
By Lisa Laronde, CAWIC and RSG International
A great deal has changed since 2005, when the Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC) was formed. We have witnessed the emergence of a new digital economy, an enhanced focus on health, safety and mental wellness, and an increased demand for skilled workers. The one thing that has not changed is our association’s commitment to support women across the industry.
Based on feedback CAWIC collected from those involved in the association in late 2023, we know that women in the construction industry are looking to be part of a community; they want to network, bond, share and grow with fellow women.
This year, CAWIC and the entire construction industry can and will build a stronger community for women working in the construction field. For CAWIC, we will focus our efforts on supporting women and helping them advance their careers by providing professional development, networking and mentorship from coast to coast. With a new two-year strategic plan in place, CAWIC is firmly and rapidly expanding on our foundation and our focus to better support women including racialized women, those living with disabilities and members of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.
As many have heard me say, if the construction industry does not continue to make progress to attract, support and retain women, the industry will not thrive, let alone survive. We as a collective need to hold companies, individuals and organizations accountable to ensure women are getting the opportunities they not only deserve but have earned.
Women are a growing and essential segment in the construction industry. As many have heard me say, if the construction industry does not continue to make progress to attract, support and retain women, the industry will not thrive, let alone survive. We as a collective need to hold companies, individuals and organizations accountable to ensure women are getting the opportunities they not only deserve but have earned.
Our industry is facing extensive demand as we try to ensure we have a workforce available to meet the needs of today and tomorrow. With the realities of an aging population, looming retirements on the horizon and a growing competitive job market, now more than ever we need to attract and retain women in the construction industry. However, we can only draw and retain women on our teams and in our leadership roles when our companies provide the right culture and environment that is supportive for women.
A vital part of this is ensuring that organizations offer opportunities for their teams to continually learn. This opportunity to learn cannot be achieved in isolation. Having a network to rely on and share lived experiences is crucial. For women in construction, CAWIC is further developing that community to learn, live and grow in.
Each day across the industry, we see the immense pride that women in construction have for their job, their organizations and the role they play in building and strengthening our country. We must continue to harness that pride and the opportunities that exist to attract the next generation of women to our sector.
While there are still enormous challenges and barriers that must be solved, including childcare, pay equity, title equity, PPE availability and fit, and discrimination and harassment in the workplaces, we are seeing true progress. With our united voices, persistent actions, ongoing outreach and partnerships with allied construction organizations, we will cultivate a supportive community for women to work and thrive. Through this focus and action, we will bring about lasting and meaningful change.
Lisa Laronde is president of RSG International, a global leader in road safety infrastructure, and a powerful advocate for women in leadership. She is also president of the Canadian Association of Women in Construction (CAWIC). In fall 2023, she was recognized as one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women by WXN (Women’s Executive Network).
Six months after Saskatchewan Common Ground Alliance transfer
By Shannon Doka
Sask 1st Call began a new chapter in June when – after two decades of running the service – SaskEnergy transferred ownership to the Saskatchewan Common Ground Alliance (SCGA).
SaskEnergy launched the organization with its familiar “Call Before You Dig” messaging on Jan. 2, 2003.
“There were notification companies in other provinces like Ontario and Alberta. Companies that crossed over borders really saw the value in having a notification service in Saskatchewan, too,” said Shawn Fairman, general manager, distribution customer services, and vice-president of the new Sask 1st Call board of directors. “It made sense for SaskEnergy to be a part of it because we have a lot of underground infrastructure and because safety is a core value for our company.”
Sask 1st Call can help enhance safety for people and businesses doing construction in Saskatchewan. They can request a line locate free of charge, either by calling a 1-800 phone number or submitting a request online. Within three business days, any underground infrastructure will be marked using flags, stakes or paint. If an area is marked, this is a clear signal to not dig in or obstruct the area.
Sask 1st Call can also help protect subscribing companies’ underground facilities.
“Sask 1st Call enables dependable, cost-effective communication between subscribers and those intending to disturb the ground,” said Shannon Doka, executive director, SCGA. “This service greatly enhances public safety, as many facilities may exist underground that landowners are unaware of.”
With this mission of safety for both users and subscribers, Sask 1st Call has grown over the years. It began when SaskEnergy saw underground facilities continuing to grow in complexity, and the company worked to build the organization throughout 2002. In April that year, it was lauded in the provincial legislature as a “valuable service to pipeline companies.”
“This is another example of the people of Saskatchewan’s public industry serving the public good and helping to encourage more investment and expansion in our province,” Member of the Legislative Assembly Keith Goulet stated at the time.
When it launched eight months later, Sask 1st Call had just two registered member companies – SaskEnergy and TransGas. Others quickly joined, and today, Sask 1st Call has more than 120 subscriber companies.
In the early years, “Call Before You Dig” was the primary option for Sask 1st Call. However, people could also request a locate by fax machine. In the service’s first year, more than 49,000 fax requests were received.
SaskEnergy’s customer service representatives answered the toll-free calls, then consulted a screening database to determine which subscriber companies had infrastructure at the customer’s location. In early 2020, a master services agreement with Utility Safety Partners in Alberta provided a more consistent approach to the one-call service.
In August 2004, online requests became an option. That year, there were more than 97,000 online locates requested and the service grew to include 20 subscriber companies.
Also in 2004, SaskTel joined Sask 1st Call – the first non-oil and gas company to become a member.
Five years later, another Crown corporation, SaskPower, signed on. By 2010, line locate requests had grown five-fold.
Over the years, the organization continued to expand its reach and support its mandate of public safety and damage prevention.
In 2014, a safety patrol program was launched with the goal of reducing incidents in new urban neighbourhoods in Regina, Saskatoon, Moose Jaw and suburban communities of Regina.
In vehicles decorated with Sask 1st Call branding, the contracted patrollers actively checked in with people in the new areas. When landscaping, building a fence or deck, or pouring a new driveway, people were asked if they had completed a line locate. The program contributed to a steady decline in third-party line hits.
Nowadays, technology makes it more convenient to request line locates.
“Over time, we try to make it as easy as possible and promote the online requests instead of calling in. We have found that far fewer incidents happen when requests are made online instead of by phone,” said Fairman. “It’s really about making sure the customers are safe. Many times, there are high voltage power lines or gas lines, and it’s in everyone’s best interest when we’re doing the projects in our yard that we’re being safe.”
Twenty years after it was launched, Sask 1st Call extended the line locate expiry date from 10 business days to 30 calendar days to make things more efficient and convenient for customers and subscribers.
This change aligns Saskatchewan with other provinces and jurisdictions that already had a 30-day window for line locates.
“All parties agree this change will safely help deal with the unexpected, such as weather- related delays, equipment breakdown and needed crew downtime,” said Doka.
The most recent substantial change took place in June 2023, when the SCGA began managing the service.
“The SCGA is a good fit to oversee the service, as a non-profit organization that shares SaskEnergy’s dedication to public safety, environmental protection and damage prevention,” said Fairman.
As a newly-formed non-profit corporation, Sask 1st Call now has a board of directors – appointed by the SCGA – to provide strategic direction to the business and governance.
The Sask 1st Call board of directors are:
James Cameron, Crescent Point Energy, Calgary – president
Shawn Fairman, SaskEnergy, Regina – vice-president
“Establishing Sask 1st Call was a great initiative, and it’s grown over the years to something that’s going to be a legacy for SaskEnergy,” said Fairman.
In addition to the new board, Sask 1st Call also has a new director to manage the service and day-to-day operations. Lisa Kosolofski started in this role in October 2023.
“[Kosolofski] brings a lot of experience to promote and provide customer service to Sask 1st Call users and subscribers,” said Doka. “The SCGA and Sask 1st Call are looking forward to what the next 20 years will bring!”
For more information on Sask 1st Call, visit sask1stcall.com or email firstcalldirector@scga.ca.
For more information on SCGA, visit scga.ca or email executivedirector@scga.ca.
