In an effort to protect properties in high-risk flood zones, the government is changing the flood risk evaluations. The provincial government announced on July 31, 2025, they are adopting a one-in-200-year flood standard which aligns with the regulations of ‘The Planning and Development Act of 2007’.

This alignment is to ensure Saskatchewan communities can build and grow in a sustainable way especially where flood risk is high.

Daryl Harrison, the Minister of the Water Security Agency (WSA) says he is happy to support this announcement and the government changing the flood risk evaluations. He says the WSA has been engaging with communities across Saskatchewan about flood mapping and helping them navigate the proper elevations needed for these developments. “Saskatchewan communities have great landscapes, and often water, whether it be a creek, river or lake, is a desired spot for development.”  The measures will help support current property owners with their concerns related to flooding but also allows decision-making power for potential buyers and future developers.

In today’s announcement the province says they are aligning with the Federal Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements program to keep communities safe.  They said the government heard the concerns from the communities and is supporting their developments and flood protection by adopting the one-in-200-year flood elevation.

R.M. of Corman Park Reeve Joe Hargrave says the province’s effort to align with federal guidelines is appreciated.  “These new guidelines will help form our upcoming discussions with valley residents who live within the flood plain which is a crucial area that we’ve had many discussions with so far, and we are just so happy to see this initial change.”

The WSA says not only do they provide technical advice to communities, but they also help with the cost. Since 2021, WSA in partnership with the federal government has invested over 2.7 million dollars on flood mapping projects for communities across Saskatchewan.