Environmental Services Resource Center

The Department of Environmental Services is committed to managing Yorkton’s water resources with precision and care. From sourcing and treating water to maintaining metering systems and protecting local waterways, our team ensures the delivery of safe, clean water while safeguarding the environment. By employing innovative practices and adhering to stringent quality standards, we prioritize public health, environmental stewardship, and sustainable growth for our community.

Our Mission

Collaborate

We work as a cohesive team, recognizing and valuing every contribution to achieve comprehensive water and wastewater management.

Innovate

We embrace advancing technologies and adopt responsible practices, underscoring our commitment to environmental sustainability.

Operate

We align public health, workforce safety, and fiscal responsibility to deliver exceptional service standards.

Ensuring accountable and transparent management of Yorkton's water resources is our guiding principle, reflecting our unwavering dedication to Environmental Stewardship.

Stakeholder Reports

Department of Environmental Services Stakeholder Report 2024

Explore our Annual Stakeholder Reports for a detailed overview of our department’s initiatives, achievements, and future plans.

Source Water Management

Aquifer Management

The Water Cycle

The City of Yorkton relies entirely on groundwater to meet the needs of its over 6,000 homes, businesses, and industries, making it the largest community in Saskatchewan to do so. The water cycle plays a vital role in sustaining our community’s water supply, from precipitation to groundwater recharge, and from water treatment to environmental return. Understanding this process showcases the importance of sourcewater management in ensuring a clean, safe, and reliable water supply for today and future generations.

Our Aquifers: The Lifeblood of Community

At the heart of The City of Yorkton’s water management strategy is a commitment to sustainability, monitoring, and transparency. Here’s how we protect and manage these vital resources:

Extensive Monitoring Network: Yorkton maintains over 130 observation wells, known as piezometers, to collect valuable data on groundwater levels and quality. These wells allow us to track trends, anticipate changes, and respond to potential concerns effectively.


Regular Water Quality Testing: Water from our aquifers is regularly tested to ensure it meets rigorous safety standards. This testing allows us to identify and address any issues before they impact the community.


Collaboration with Experts: We work closely with the Water Security Agency (WSA) and utilize data from qualified hydrogeology experts. This collaboration strengthens our ability to understand and manage groundwater systems comprehensively.


Transparency and Public Reporting: Through regular data analysis and public reporting, the City of Yorkton fosters an open dialogue with the community about the state of its water resources. Transparency helps build trust and ensures our management decisions are guided by science.

Our Aquifers at a Glance

Beneath the surface of Yorkton and surrounding area lies a series of aquifers, including:

1. Collacot Aquifer
2. Empress Aquifer
3. Leech Lake Aquifer
4. Logan Aquifer
5. Sturdee Aquifer

These aquifers serve as interconnected layers of groundwater storage, replenished by natural processes and safeguarded by modern technology and practices.

The attached 3D diagram offers a cross-sectional view of how groundwater wells penetrate local aquifers and transport raw water resources to the water treatment plant for processing.

Source-water Reports

Yorkton Aquifer Management Plan

Initiated in the 1990s, the Yorkton Aquifer Management Plan has been instrumental in safeguarding the city’s groundwater resources. By enhancing oversight of the aquifers that supply the City of Yorkton’s water, this plan ensures their sustainable use.

A key component of the initiative involves observation wells, such as WSA Yorkton 99-02, installed in 1999 to monitor the Leech Lake aquifer—one of the primary sources for the south well field. This ongoing monitoring provides valuable data on water levels and quality, supporting informed decisions and protecting the local environment.

Groundwater Resources in the Yorkton Aquifer Management Plan Area: Final Report

Source-water Protection Plan

In 2006, the Yorkton Area Aquifers Source Water Protection Plan was developed through a collaborative effort involving local municipalities, interest groups, and regulatory bodies. This plan identifies and addresses potential threats to groundwater quality and quantity, such as:

Agricultural runoff
Industrial activities
Urban development


Key actions include:
- Decommissioning abandoned wells to eliminate direct pathways to aquifers.
- Implementing zoning bylaws to protect sensitive areas.
- Promoting agricultural best practices to prevent contamination.

By emphasizing community involvement and education, the plan plays a vital role in safeguarding the City's groundwater resources for future generations.

Yorkton Area Aquifer

Logan Green Water Management System

The Logan Green Water Management System exemplifies the City of Yorkton’s commitment to innovative water practices. Since 2012, this state-of-the-art system has played an outsized role in enhancing water management resiliency by capturing and purifying water treatment waste streams. Through natural filtration processes, the system not only reduces resource waste but also replenishes the Logan Aquifer, helping to sustain Yorkton’s groundwater supply. This forward-thinking approach supports ecosystem health, combats the challenges of climate change, and ensures a resilient water supply for residents and businesses.


Water Treatment & Storage

Water Treatment Process

Maintaining Quality from Source to Sip


Yorkton's water journey starts deep underground, drawn from five aquifers and 12 wells before arriving at the Queen Street Water Treatment Plant. There, it undergoes aeration, chemical oxidation, and dual filtration to remove iron, manganese, and other impurities. The purified water is then stored in an 18,000 m³ reservoir, ready for distribution to the community. Innovative wetland treatment processes also help recycle backwash water, supporting groundwater recharge and local ecosystems. Learn how Yorkton ensures safe, clean drinking water every day.

WTP Process Drawing

Consumer Reports

2024

Drinking Water Quality and Compliance - 2024

2023

Drinking Water Quality and Compliance - 2023

The City of Yorkton publishes an annual Drinking Water Quality and Compliance Report to ensure transparency and inform residents about their water quality. This report includes data on bacteriological testing, disinfection levels, turbidity, chemical and pesticide analysis, and regulated by-products like trihalomethanes (THMs). It outlines compliance with regulatory standards, provides context for any detected contaminants, and explains the treatment processes in place. Residents can review the full report for detailed results and further information.

Municipal Waterworks Annual Reports

2023

Annual Waterworks Information - 2023

The Annual Waterworks Information Report for the City of Yorkton provides an overview of water utility rates, capital investment strategies, financial performance, and infrastructure planning. The report outlines the city's commitment to a self-sustaining water utility, with rate structures designed to fund operational costs and infrastructure renewal without reliance on general taxation. It also details capital projects, funding sources, and reserve balances, ensuring long-term sustainability and compliance with provincial regulations.


Utility Services Division

Watermains to Sewer Drains; Who Maintains?


Yorkton’s water and wastewater systems rely on over 300 kilometers of buried infrastructure. The City maintains water mains, curb stops, water meters, and sanitary sewer mains, delivering clean water and collecting wastewater for treatment. Property owners, however, are responsible for their own service lines—from the water main to their home—as well as all internal plumbing. If an issue arises, homeowners should contact a certified plumber. If City infrastructure is involved, the City will assist and may reimburse the plumbing assessment after review. Learn how shared responsibilities keep Yorkton’s water flowing and protect your property.

Customer Guides

Backflow Prevention

Backflow Prevention Trifold Brochure

Backflow prevention protects Yorkton’s water supply from contamination risks caused by cross-connections between plumbing systems and the public water network. Property owners must install and maintain backflow prevention devices where required, especially in homes and businesses with irrigation, fire sprinklers, or boiler systems. Certified professionals must complete installation and annual testing to comply with City bylaws and national plumbing codes.

Water & Sewer Service Line Replacement

Water and Sewer Line Replacement

Yorkton’s water and sewer systems depend on both City infrastructure and homeowner-maintained connections. This guide explains your role in maintaining your property’s service connections, outlines what to expect during service line replacements, and provides tips for protecting your infrastructure from freezing, damage, or wear.

Temporary Water Services

Notice of Service disruption

Drinking Water Advisories

Drinking Water Notification

Drinking Water Notification - Lifted

The City of Yorkton issues Drinking Water Notifications (DWNs) when water service is interrupted or at risk due to system maintenance, repairs, or emergencies. These advisories are typically triggered by events such as water main breaks, low-pressure situations, or planned infrastructure upgrades.

During a DWA, affected customers must bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before using it for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, or food preparation. Once testing confirms that the water is safe to consume, the City will issue a "Drinking Water Advisory Lifted" notice, and normal water use may resume.

👉 View Current Water Advisories

The Department of Environmental Services is committed to managing Yorkton’s water resources with precision and care. From sourcing and treating water to maintaining metering systems and protecting local waterways, our team ensures the delivery of safe, clean water while safeguarding the environment. By employing innovative practices and adhering to stringent quality standards, we prioritize public health, environmental stewardship, and sustainable growth for our community.

Our Mission

Collaborate

We work as a cohesive team, recognizing and valuing every contribution to achieve comprehensive water and wastewater management.

Innovate

We embrace advancing technologies and adopt responsible practices, underscoring our commitment to environmental sustainability.

Operate

We align public health, workforce safety, and fiscal responsibility to deliver exceptional service standards.

Ensuring accountable and transparent management of Yorkton's water resources is our guiding principle, reflecting our unwavering dedication to Environmental Stewardship.

Stakeholder Reports

Department of Environmental Services Stakeholder Report 2024

Explore our Annual Stakeholder Reports for a detailed overview of our department’s initiatives, achievements, and future plans.

Source Water Management

Aquifer Management

The Water Cycle

The City of Yorkton relies entirely on groundwater to meet the needs of its over 6,000 homes, businesses, and industries, making it the largest community in Saskatchewan to do so. The water cycle plays a vital role in sustaining our community’s water supply, from precipitation to groundwater recharge, and from water treatment to environmental return. Understanding this process showcases the importance of sourcewater management in ensuring a clean, safe, and reliable water supply for today and future generations.

Our Aquifers: The Lifeblood of Community

At the heart of The City of Yorkton’s water management strategy is a commitment to sustainability, monitoring, and transparency. Here’s how we protect and manage these vital resources:

Extensive Monitoring Network: Yorkton maintains over 130 observation wells, known as piezometers, to collect valuable data on groundwater levels and quality. These wells allow us to track trends, anticipate changes, and respond to potential concerns effectively.


Regular Water Quality Testing: Water from our aquifers is regularly tested to ensure it meets rigorous safety standards. This testing allows us to identify and address any issues before they impact the community.


Collaboration with Experts: We work closely with the Water Security Agency (WSA) and utilize data from qualified hydrogeology experts. This collaboration strengthens our ability to understand and manage groundwater systems comprehensively.


Transparency and Public Reporting: Through regular data analysis and public reporting, the City of Yorkton fosters an open dialogue with the community about the state of its water resources. Transparency helps build trust and ensures our management decisions are guided by science.

Our Aquifers at a Glance

Beneath the surface of Yorkton and surrounding area lies a series of aquifers, including:

1. Collacot Aquifer
2. Empress Aquifer
3. Leech Lake Aquifer
4. Logan Aquifer
5. Sturdee Aquifer

These aquifers serve as interconnected layers of groundwater storage, replenished by natural processes and safeguarded by modern technology and practices.

The attached 3D diagram offers a cross-sectional view of how groundwater wells penetrate local aquifers and transport raw water resources to the water treatment plant for processing.

Source-water Reports

Yorkton Aquifer Management Plan

Initiated in the 1990s, the Yorkton Aquifer Management Plan has been instrumental in safeguarding the city’s groundwater resources. By enhancing oversight of the aquifers that supply the City of Yorkton’s water, this plan ensures their sustainable use.

A key component of the initiative involves observation wells, such as WSA Yorkton 99-02, installed in 1999 to monitor the Leech Lake aquifer—one of the primary sources for the south well field. This ongoing monitoring provides valuable data on water levels and quality, supporting informed decisions and protecting the local environment.

Groundwater Resources in the Yorkton Aquifer Management Plan Area: Final Report

Source-water Protection Plan

In 2006, the Yorkton Area Aquifers Source Water Protection Plan was developed through a collaborative effort involving local municipalities, interest groups, and regulatory bodies. This plan identifies and addresses potential threats to groundwater quality and quantity, such as:

Agricultural runoff
Industrial activities
Urban development


Key actions include:
- Decommissioning abandoned wells to eliminate direct pathways to aquifers.
- Implementing zoning bylaws to protect sensitive areas.
- Promoting agricultural best practices to prevent contamination.

By emphasizing community involvement and education, the plan plays a vital role in safeguarding the City's groundwater resources for future generations.

Yorkton Area Aquifer

Logan Green Water Management System

The Logan Green Water Management System exemplifies the City of Yorkton’s commitment to innovative water practices. Since 2012, this state-of-the-art system has played an outsized role in enhancing water management resiliency by capturing and purifying water treatment waste streams. Through natural filtration processes, the system not only reduces resource waste but also replenishes the Logan Aquifer, helping to sustain Yorkton’s groundwater supply. This forward-thinking approach supports ecosystem health, combats the challenges of climate change, and ensures a resilient water supply for residents and businesses.


Water Treatment & Storage

Water Treatment Process

Maintaining Quality from Source to Sip


Yorkton's water journey starts deep underground, drawn from five aquifers and 12 wells before arriving at the Queen Street Water Treatment Plant. There, it undergoes aeration, chemical oxidation, and dual filtration to remove iron, manganese, and other impurities. The purified water is then stored in an 18,000 m³ reservoir, ready for distribution to the community. Innovative wetland treatment processes also help recycle backwash water, supporting groundwater recharge and local ecosystems. Learn how Yorkton ensures safe, clean drinking water every day.

WTP Process Drawing

Consumer Reports

2024

Drinking Water Quality and Compliance - 2024

2023

Drinking Water Quality and Compliance - 2023

The City of Yorkton publishes an annual Drinking Water Quality and Compliance Report to ensure transparency and inform residents about their water quality. This report includes data on bacteriological testing, disinfection levels, turbidity, chemical and pesticide analysis, and regulated by-products like trihalomethanes (THMs). It outlines compliance with regulatory standards, provides context for any detected contaminants, and explains the treatment processes in place. Residents can review the full report for detailed results and further information.

Municipal Waterworks Annual Reports

2023

Annual Waterworks Information - 2023

The Annual Waterworks Information Report for the City of Yorkton provides an overview of water utility rates, capital investment strategies, financial performance, and infrastructure planning. The report outlines the city's commitment to a self-sustaining water utility, with rate structures designed to fund operational costs and infrastructure renewal without reliance on general taxation. It also details capital projects, funding sources, and reserve balances, ensuring long-term sustainability and compliance with provincial regulations.


Utility Services Division

Watermains to Sewer Drains; Who Maintains?


Yorkton’s water and wastewater systems rely on over 300 kilometers of buried infrastructure. The City maintains water mains, curb stops, water meters, and sanitary sewer mains, delivering clean water and collecting wastewater for treatment. Property owners, however, are responsible for their own service lines—from the water main to their home—as well as all internal plumbing. If an issue arises, homeowners should contact a certified plumber. If City infrastructure is involved, the City will assist and may reimburse the plumbing assessment after review. Learn how shared responsibilities keep Yorkton’s water flowing and protect your property.

Customer Guides

Backflow Prevention

Backflow Prevention Trifold Brochure

Backflow prevention protects Yorkton’s water supply from contamination risks caused by cross-connections between plumbing systems and the public water network. Property owners must install and maintain backflow prevention devices where required, especially in homes and businesses with irrigation, fire sprinklers, or boiler systems. Certified professionals must complete installation and annual testing to comply with City bylaws and national plumbing codes.

Water & Sewer Service Line Replacement

Water and Sewer Line Replacement

Yorkton’s water and sewer systems depend on both City infrastructure and homeowner-maintained connections. This guide explains your role in maintaining your property’s service connections, outlines what to expect during service line replacements, and provides tips for protecting your infrastructure from freezing, damage, or wear.

Temporary Water Services

Notice of Service disruption

Drinking Water Advisories

Drinking Water Notification

Drinking Water Notification - Lifted

The City of Yorkton issues Drinking Water Notifications (DWNs) when water service is interrupted or at risk due to system maintenance, repairs, or emergencies. These advisories are typically triggered by events such as water main breaks, low-pressure situations, or planned infrastructure upgrades.

During a DWA, affected customers must bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before using it for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, or food preparation. Once testing confirms that the water is safe to consume, the City will issue a "Drinking Water Advisory Lifted" notice, and normal water use may resume.

👉 View Current Water Advisories