Frequently Asked Questions

What will lake levels be during construction and what are the long-term impacts?

Construction is planned between September and April to reduce impacts on residents, businesses, recreational users and wildlife.

The goal is to keep lake levels within the normal operating range while construction is completed safely. During wet conditions, minor water releases may be required after the September long weekend to create construction capacity. If conditions are exceptionally wet and risks cannot be managed safely, construction may be postponed.

The project is not intended to change Candle Lake’s established operating range. Its purpose is to improve the long-term reliability of water-level management.

Can long-term lake levels be maintained at higher elevations?

Lake levels must balance recreation, environmental requirements, flood and drought risks, downstream needs and existing infrastructure.

Raising the operating range would require public engagement, technical studies, cost analysis and an assessment of potential impacts on shoreline property, infrastructure and the environment. Existing easements may also need to be renegotiated with affected landowners.

Can lake levels be maintained at higher elevations for longer during the recreational season?

Maintaining higher lake levels for longer periods would affect the current operating approach.

Lake levels generally rise with spring snowmelt and rainfall, then decline later in the season as inflows decrease and water is lost through evaporation and the fishway.

The control structure is adjusted throughout the year to balance flood management, environmental and downstream needs, infrastructure and recreation. Because groundwater can increase lake levels during winter, levels are typically managed toward the lower end of the operating range before freeze-up. This helps preserve capacity to respond to changing watershed conditions.

Why can’t the control structure be set at a fixed elevation and left to operate without ongoing adjustments?

Runoff, precipitation, evaporation and downstream conditions continually affect lake levels. An adjustable control structure provides the flexibility needed to respond to these changing conditions.

A fixed structure could result in lower lake levels during dry periods and higher lake levels during spring runoff or wet conditions. Overall, water-level fluctuations would likely be greater with a fixed structure than with an adjustable one.

How and where are lake levels measured?

Lake levels are monitored using gauge stations located on Candle Lake and throughout the surrounding watershed. Additional gauges at the control structure help operators obtain accurate readings, including during periods of high wind.

Near real-time stream flow and lake level data is available here.

How should private marinas be designed for typical lake water levels?

Private marinas should be designed to accommodate the normal operating range and seasonal fluctuations in lake levels.

Anyone planning a marina should contact WSA Client Services (1-800-727-5420) for information regarding water levels, design considerations and permitting requirements.

Where does water flow after leaving Candle Lake?

Water released from Candle Lake enters the Torch River, which eventually flows into the Saskatchewan River downstream of Tobin Lake.

Why is proactive replacement preferable?

Replacing the structure before it fails is safer, less disruptive and generally more cost-effective than an emergency response.

A failure could affect water-level management, damage nearby infrastructure, create environmental and public safety risks, and result in higher repair costs.

How does this project relate to previous Candle Lake projects?

This project builds on upgrades completed in 2023, including converting the gates from hand-operated to actuator-operated and installing safety fencing and signage.

The current phase focuses on improving the long-term reliability, safety and performance of the control structure so it can continue managing lake levels safely.

How will fish be protected during construction?

Fish will be protected in accordance with all applicable environmental regulations and permit requirements.

If a work area must be isolated and drained, qualified professionals will assess the area and, if necessary, safely relocate fish upstream or downstream.

Additional measures, such as turbidity curtains, may also be used to contain sediment and protect water quality and aquatic habitat.

How will aquatic life, environment and water quality be protected during construction?

Environmental safeguards are incorporated into project planning, permitting and construction to protect fish, aquatic habitat and water quality.

Measures may include cofferdams, turbidity curtains, erosion and sediment controls, and fish relocation from isolated work areas.

If in-water work is required, water quality will be monitored against applicable guidelines, including turbidity and Total Suspended Solids (TSS). If thresholds are exceeded, mitigation measures will be implemented and work activities adjusted as required before construction continues.

Why are safety booms, fencing and signage needed?

These measures help protect the public from hazards associated with the control structure and improve overall site safety.

Safety measures are designed in accordance with applicable Canadian Dam Association (CDA) guidance and industry best practices.

Safety booms help keep people away from strong currents and turbulent water near the structure. Their angled design also directs debris away from the structure and can guide a person in the water toward shore.

Fencing restricts access to hazardous areas, while signage identifies hazards and areas where caution or restricted access is required.

What is the estimated project cost, what does it include and how will it be funded?

The project is estimated to cost approximately $5-10 million and will be funded through Water Security Agency’s annual capital budget for water management, dam safety and public infrastructure.

The estimate includes design, environmental assessment and permitting, fish protection measures, in-water construction, public safety features, specialized equipment, construction management and long-term durability requirements.

Why is government funding this project while other local infrastructure needs remain?

Government funding is allocated according to the specific mandates of ministries and agencies.

Funding for dam safety and water management infrastructure is separate from funding for parks, recreation and municipal infrastructure. It is generally not available for other purposes.

This investment supports the long-term reliability of critical water-management infrastructure.

How can contractors become involved in project-related work?

Interested contractors should monitor SaskTender opportunities as the project progresses.

Contractors may also contact WSA Client Services (1-800-727-5420) to express interest in the project.

How will the project benefit the Candle Lake community?

The project will improve the safety and reliability of the Candle Lake control structure, extend its service life, reduce long-term risks and help avoid more costly repairs.

Reliable water-level management supports recreation, shoreline development, environmental values and overall enjoyment of the lake.