Saskatchewan’s Muskoday First Nation has unveiled its new $8.6-million reverse osmosis water treatment plant supported by Indigenous Services Canada.
The federal funding also included an efficient system of biofilters and the installation of new wells and groundwater pumping infrastructure that will support an administration building and band hall, a community health centre, elementary school, daycare, post office, gas bar and convenience store.
Previously, the community needed to rely solely on the Prince Albert Rural Water Utility, located 30 kilometres southeast, to meet its water needs.
“This state-of-the-art water treatment plant ensures the people of Muskoday First Nation have direct access to an abundance of this sacred essential element — water — to live, thrive and survive for generations to come,” announced Muskoday First Nation Chief Ronald Bear, in a statement.
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Muskoday First Nation is a member of the Saskatoon Tribal Council. The community’s population of approximately 1,916 is composed of Cree and Saulteaux peoples, although less than 1,000 live directly on the reserve.
“Now, the community can manage their own water supply in a self-determined way,” announced Minister of Indigenous Services Patty Hajdu. “Following the lead of First Nations, we will support communities’ access to clean drinking water for generations to come.”
A long-term drinking water advisory affecting Star Blanket Cree Nation’s public water system, also in Saskatchewan, was lifted on June 28, since being in effect since 2007. A new water treatment plant was constructed.
