Saskatchewan's Ministry of Highways is keen to remind rural residents and land owners that all hay bales must be removed from ditches.
After Friday, August 8, any bales in ditches are subject to being disposed of or removed at the discretion of the Ministry of Highways.
David Horth, director of communications for Saskatchewan's Ministry of Highways, shared that bale removal allows for hay salvage and mowing, which helps control harmful weed growth, provides free hay to farmers, improves visibility, and more.
"The Hay Salvage Program provides free hay to farmers, and it assists in making sure there's a neat appearance in ditches and better control of brush," he said. "Our Hay Salvage and Ditch mowing programs kind of work concurrently to make sure that we keep a neat appearance and manage things that are growing adjacent to the highways, both for the look and the safety of travellers."
Ditches in Saskatchewan are mowed every year from June until the end of fall, with the first cut including all high-traffic and several secondary provincial highways.
"Farmers can use additional forage to feed livestock, so [removing hay bales from ditches] benefits both parties," added Horth.
Folks interested in hay salvage are advised to contact their local Ministry of Highways office. For the Swift Current area, call (306) 778-8348.
Anyone interested in more information can visit the Government of Saskatchewan's website.