Aquatic Index

The South Saskatchewan River Basin includes the sub-basins of the Bow, Red Deer, Oldman and South Saskatchewan River Basins. The South Saskatchewan River drains into Lake Diefenbaker, which has two dams the Gardiner Dam and Qu’Appelle Dam.

Lake Diefenbaker is the largest body of water in southern Saskatchewan. It was formed by the Qu'Appelle River Dam and Gardiner Dam. The Qu'Appelle Dam controls flows in the Qu'Appelle River and the Gardiner Dam controls flows in the South Saskatchewan River. The dams were officially opened in 1967. The 64 meter tall, 5,000 meter long Gardiner Dam took nearly nine years to build and is one of the largest earthfill dams in the world.

The Gardiner Dam has demonstrated its importance in storing, maintaining and controlling flows in the South Saskatchewan River. It is considered to be a major recreation facility for swimming, fishing and canoeing. Lake Diefenbaker also provides domestic water for approximately 40 per cent of Saskatchewan people. Water is also stored for use by 10 potash mines, 4 large irrigation projects, various industries and wildlife interests. The lake also plays an important role in generating hydroelectric power and flood control.