Larissa McEwen

As spring turns into summer in Saskatchewan, it’s becoming increasingly common for residents to spot young animals alone in nature. But despite their apparent vulnerability, the best thing people can do is keep their distance, according to Conservation Officer Ted Glass. 

“The real short answer is just to leave it alone,” said Glass. “There’s reasons why that animal is there, and very likely mum has put that animal there and told her kid to stay there. Don’t move. And they’ll be back.” 

With recent black bear sightings making headlines, including one in Regina, Saskatchewan residents are reminded to stay vigilant and prepared when spending time outdoors.

“Really, Saskatchewan is bear country in many ways,” said Matthew Tokaruk, black bear biologist with the Ministry of Environment. “We have bears through much of the province—into the Parkland and even touching up against the grasslands sometimes.”

Faced with the risk of losing vital local health services, Oxbow town council is pushing for a more flexible approach to care at the Galloway Health Centre — one that keeps patients close to home and hospital beds in use.

After more than two years of negotiations, health-care workers represented by CUPE are taking their frustrations to the steps of the Saskatchewan Legislative Building.

Arlene Picard, general vice-president of CUPE’s Region Fuller, said the union is bargaining for a new collective agreement that prioritizes better wages, improved work-life balance, and stronger recruitment and retention strategies amid ongoing health-care staffing shortages.

"April showers bring May flowers" is a tried-and-true expression — but for homeowners, the rain and moisture can also bring headaches.

Jeremy Pilon, a communications specialist with SGI, said that without proper preparation, people can end up dealing with wet basements.

“Be it sewer backup or flooding from the surface, it’s important to get your home ready this time of year,” he said.

In the spring, there are a few key things to check to ensure flood prevention systems are in place — starting with sump pumps.

At the recent C.R.I.T. Conference, Zach Maurer, geologist and entrepreneur with Arizona Lithium, delivered an insightful presentation on the future of lithium production, focusing on the transformative potential of Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE) for Southeast Saskatchewan’s economy.

There’s been a shakeup in the world of baby names in Saskatchewan.

After nine years at the top, Olivia has finally been dethroned. Sophia takes over as the most popular name for girls in 2024, while Olivia settles into second place. Over on the boys’ side, Henry made a huge leap—from 18th place last year all the way to number one. That bump pushed Oliver down to second after holding the top spot in 2023.

Long-time favourites Liam and Noah are still going strong, holding onto the third and fourth spots for boys. Levi rounds out the top five.

The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) is now accepting applications for the new Youth Preparedness Council (YPC).

The council is open to Saskatchewan students in grades 8 to 12 who are passionate about public safety, emergency preparedness, and community leadership.

The YPC offers a platform for youth to share ideas, collaborate on projects, and gain hands-on experience in emergency management and public education.

As measles outbreaks continue to make headlines worldwide, Dr. Stanley Enebeli, Medical Health Officer with the Saskatchewan Health Authority, is urging residents of the southeast and across the province to stay vigilant.

While cases of measles have increased in parts of Canada, including Ontario and Quebec, and internationally, Enebeli confirmed that Saskatchewan has not yet reported any measles cases in 2025. However, he emphasized the importance of continued monitoring, as the risk remains due to outbreaks elsewhere.

The Government of Saskatchewan is hosting the 2025 Saskatchewan Aerospace and Defence Forum in partnership with the Saskatchewan Aviation Council.

The event aims to highlight the province’s contributions to the sector at a national and international level.