Tuesday, December 2, 2025
Standing Buffalo Dakota Nation has opened a new water treatment plant, marking a major step forward in improving long-term access to safe drinking water for the community.
Community members, Elders, leadership and representatives from Indigenous Services Canada gathered to celebrate the facility’s completion. The federal government invested $13.6 million in the project.
The 353-square-metre plant includes two new raw-water wells and a connecting waterline designed to provide a more reliable supply of treated water. The system uses biological filtration followed by reverse osmosis to improve water quality and support long-term performance.
Construction began in June 2024 and also included operator training, flushing of the distribution system and planning to decommission the previous water treatment plant. The old facility will be retained for emergency fire protection use.
Chief Roger Redman said the new plant supports Standing Buffalo’s long-term vision for healthy infrastructure and a strong future for the Nation. “Today marks an important step forward for Standing Buffalo Dakota Nation as we strengthen our ability to provide clean, safe drinking water for all of our families. This new facility reflects our commitment to building healthy, long-lasting infrastructure guided by our own values and long-term community vision,” he said.
Indigenous Services Minister Mandy Gull-Masty said the plant will improve community health and sustainability for years o come. Buckley Belanger, Secretary of State for Rural Development, said continued federal partnerships with First Nations are essential to reliable water access.
Standing Buffalo Dakota Nation, located in southern Saskatchewan, is advancing several initiatives focused on community well-being, economic development and local sovereignty. The new water treatment plant is considered a key component of that broader strategy.
Featured image: Standing Buffalo Dakota Nation
