Floodwaters from the Carrot River have overflowed, inundating a significant portion of the picturesque Pasquia Golf Course and causing approximately $2.5 million in damages. Carrot River Mayor Carrie Neigel mentioned that the back four to nine holes of the golf course are submerged due to the overflowing river.
The spring floods in central and northern Saskatchewan have led to road closures, stranded homeowners, and flooded basements, impacting agricultural activities like spring seeding. The rising waters are particularly challenging for farmers dealing with high fuel and fertilizer prices.
The town of Carrot River, located 241 kilometers northeast of Saskatoon, witnessed the river breaching its banks on May 1, resulting in the partial submersion of the nine-hole Pasquia Golf Course. Susan Schroepfer, a board member of Pasquia Regional Park, described the damage as significant and expressed concerns about the cleanup process, especially dealing with silt and debris on the golf course.
The ongoing extreme high flow advisory issued by Saskatchewan’s Water Security Agency (WSA) indicates that the Carrot River’s water levels are nearly three meters higher than at the end of April, with the peak expected over the weekend. Record-breaking water flows of 1,000 cubic meters per second have been recorded in certain sections of the river, far exceeding the normal flow rates.
The flooding has not only caused physical damage but also affected the local economy, with the Pasquia Golf Course being a major attraction for tourists, generating revenue for the community. The loss of tourism dollars, combined with the repair costs, is expected to have a substantial financial impact on the town. Neigel highlighted the extensive damage to park infrastructure, including new bathrooms, gazebos, and trees, necessitating a significant restoration effort.
Despite the challenges posed by the flood, efforts are underway to partially reopen the golf course for enthusiasts. The community is hopeful to make some holes available for golfing soon, acknowledging the resilience and determination amidst the adversity. However, concerns have been raised regarding the impact of government cuts on infrastructure funding, which are believed to have exacerbated the flood situation and its consequences.