Flooding from the Carrot River has inundated the Pasquia Golf Course, causing an estimated $2.5 million in damages. Carrot River Mayor Carrie Neigel reported that the back four to nine holes of the golf course are now underwater due to the overflowing river. The spring floods in central and northern Saskatchewan have disrupted daily life, damaging roads, trapping residents, and flooding basements.
The flooding has also impacted farmers’ spring seeding operations, halting progress in many areas amidst rising fuel and fertilizer costs. Residents of Carrot River, located 241 kilometers northeast of Saskatoon, witnessed the river breaching its banks on May 1. By the weekend, the Pasquia Golf Course was partially submerged, with water levels reaching the roof of a gazebo in the park’s campground.
Susan Schroepfer, a board member of Pasquia Regional Park, described the extensive damage caused by the flooding, emphasizing the challenges of cleaning up debris and silt left behind on the course. The fourth hole of the golf course, which has experienced flooding before, is expected to require significant repairs estimated at $2.5 million.
The Water Security Agency (WSA) of Saskatchewan issued an extreme high flow advisory for the Carrot River, with water levels 2.9 meters higher than at the end of April. The agency projected that the river’s water levels would continue to rise until the weekend, with record-breaking water flows of 1,000 cubic meters per second compared to the normal rate of 200 cubic meters per second.
The flooding has not only caused physical damage but has also impacted tourism revenue for the community, as the golf course serves as a popular attraction for visitors. Mayor Neigel expressed concerns about the financial impact of lost tourism income coupled with the costs of repairing the damages. Neigel highlighted the significant investments made in the park’s amenities, such as new bathrooms and recreational facilities, which are now at risk of being destroyed by the flooding.
Despite the challenges posed by the floodwaters, efforts are being made to partially reopen the golf course for enthusiasts. Schroepfer mentioned that certain holes may be accessible for eager golfers. Neigel criticized government cuts to infrastructure funding, attributing the severity of the flooding to these decisions. She emphasized the importance of proper planning and investment in flood mitigation measures to ensure the safety of residents and minimize damages.