Buffalo Pound Water Quality Research Project

WSA is conducting a research project to assess the water quality of creeks and rivers flowing into Buffalo Pound Lake, which is an important drinking water source for a large portion of Saskatchewan’s population. Information from water quality monitoring helps ensure Buffalo Pound Lake remains a safe and reliable source of drinking water. Monitoring provides essential data on nutrient levels, suspended sediment and other factors that can affect the lake.

WSA will monitor water flow and water quality at multiple sites in the lake’s watershed, including tributaries such as: 

• Ridge Creek 
• Iskwao Creek 
• Moose Jaw River (which sometimes flows backward into Buffalo Pound Lake) 

At select sites, automated samplers will collect water at high frequency, while other sites will be monitored manually by WSA staff. Some locations will also have instruments installed on culverts or bridges to track water quality and flow conditions. Landowners’ permission will be sought before installing monitoring equipment on private land or infrastructure. 

The collected data will inform water management strategies, helping to balance development with environmental protection. Results will guide best practices for water management, such as controlling drainage flow to reduce erosion and sedimentation. Findings will be publicly accessible, promoting transparency and trust in water management efforts. 

This project supports long-term access to clean drinking water by tracking and analyzing data to understand the water quality implications of changes in the region, promoting responsible growth and development in the region. 

Starting in spring 2025 and continuing through 2027, the Water Security Agency is monitoring water quality and flow at several key locations in the watershed. This includes Ridge Creek, Moose Jaw River and a drainage project near Marquis and Iskwao Creek. Equipment is now in place and regular sampling is underway.

The project is actively monitoring flows and water quality across the watershed. WSA will continue to check in with local stakeholders and provide updates as the project moves forward.