On August 12th, construction will begin on the first thermal spa in Saskatchewan.
Thermal spas utilize the benefits of steam rooms, saunas, cold plunge pools, and hot tubs to stimulate the immune and nervous systems, as well as get rid of bodily toxins. Chief Darcy Bear of Whitecap Dakota First Nation says although this will be the first thermal spa in Saskatchewan, there is a similar geothermal spa in Moose Jaw established using mineral water from an underground well.
“The thermal spas themselves, there are over 300 of them in North America. There are 47 in Quebec, but Canada wide there are 54 or 55, and none here in Saskatchewan. You go to Europe, there are 6,000 thermal spas. You go to the Asian-Pacific, there’s 26,000 thermal spas.”
The thermal spa will be fully accessible, and Architect Derek Kindrachuk says it is also the first Indigenous themed thermal spa in Canada.
“The design centers thematically around highlighting Dakota star knowledge and distinct kinship of earth and sky present at this location to enrich the guests’ journeys and see them leaving refreshed and connected with their surroundings.”
The spa, set to open in 2026, will be built on Whitecap Dakota First Nation adjacent to the Dakota Dunes Resort. Federal Minister of Indigenous Services Patty Hajdu says providing opportunities for First Nations to generate their own wealth is reconciliation in action.
“This isn’t just what the government of Canada ought to do or should do, it’s actually the most important job we have as a country: to make sure that communities, Indigenous people, First Nations have every tool that they need to recover and to thrive.”
The $52 million project was made possible through a $15 million investment from the federal government, as well as $2 million from Indigenous Services Canada. The remainder will be funded through a partnership between the First Nation and the Bank of Montreal.
The new spa is expected to generate 320 construction jobs and 166 operational jobs for residents in and around Whitecap Dakota First Nation.
