MEDIA STATEMENT

July 31, 2025

RM of Frenchman Butte Declares Local State of Emergency Due to Drought
Conditions
The Council of the Rural Municipality of Frenchman Butte No. 501 has declared a local
state of emergency, effective July 30, 2025, in response to escalating drought conditions
impacting agricultural operations and public safety across the municipality.
This decision was made following extended periods of low precipitation, which have
resulted in:
 Critically low topsoil moisture across cropland, hayland, and pasture
 Widespread crop deterioration and reduced hay yields
 Shortages of feed and water for livestock
 Deteriorating pasture conditions
 Increased wildfire risk due to persistent heat, dryness, and wind
Council’s intent in declaring this emergency is to bring public attention to the seriousness
of these challenges and to stand in support of local agricultural producers who are facing
growing hardship.
The emergency declaration enables the RM to take specific actions to support its
residents and agricultural producers, including engaging with the Saskatchewan Public
Safety Agency (SPSA) and exploring available provincial or federal relief programs.
The declaration will remain in effect for seven (7) days, unless renewed or terminated
sooner, in accordance with The Emergency Planning Act.
Residents and producers are encouraged to continue monitoring the RM’s website and
social media channels for updates.
For more information, please contact the RM office at (306) 344-2034.
Sincerely,
Aaron Neilly, CET
A/Chief Administrative Officer