News Releases
Saskatoon Fire - News Releases
River rescue call near Spadina Cres. & Ravine Dr.
July 31, 2026 - 3:37pm
The Saskatoon Fire Department (SFD) responded at 11:50 a.m. to a report of a person and dog in the river.
SFD launched two boats from the 33rd Street boat launch. They went to the individual’s last reported known location on the east side of the riverbank adjacent Spadina Crescent and Ravine Drive.
The fire crews conducted both a riverbank and water search and also began dive operations from the point the person was last seen.
Drone supports from the Saskatoon Police Service and Corman Park Police service also assisted to expand the search area from the air.
A fire department diver conducted rescue operations for approximately 60 minutes but was unable to locate the individual.
Another dive team will continue the search switching to sonar scan operations.
Initial reports indicated a dog was also in the water and self-rescued. However, further conversations with the fire rescue crews and police reveal that so far, no dog has been located.
More information will be released if it becomes available.
City releases Climate Action Strategy
July 29, 2026 - 4:30pm
A long-term framework: 25-year roadmap supports safer, healthier, more prosperous Saskatoon
The City of Saskatoon has revealed its Climate Action Strategy (Strategy), a 25-year proposal for climate readiness that provides a framework for responding to the growing impacts of climate change while supporting the vision for a safer, healthier and more prosperous community.
The updated Strategy is made up of two playbooks for climate readiness; one outlines measures that reduce carbon pollution while the other suggests ways to prepare the community for impacts of a changing climate. The Strategy includes corporate leadership and community action, all guided by a commitment to equity, reconciliation, prosperity, and miyo-pimâtisiwin (the good life).
“Climate change is already affecting communities across Canada, and Saskatoon is not immune to those impacts,” says Director of Sustainability Jeanna South. “This Strategy helps ensure we are prepared for the future by taking a thoughtful, responsible approach that protects our community, supports residents and helps maintain the services people rely on every day.”
The Strategy outlines potential actions and areas of focus that can be explored over time as community needs, technologies and funding opportunities evolve. It will help guide decision-making as the City prepares for challenges such as extreme heat, flooding, wildfire smoke and severe storms that can affect public safety, infrastructure and essential services.
Approval of the Strategy does not include approval or funding for individual initiatives, which will be considered separately through future decision-making, budget and public engagement processes.
“The Climate Action Strategy helps people in Saskatoon to stay healthy, supported and strong in a changing climate,” said South. "A safer Saskatoon means being prepared before the next heat wave, smoke event or major storm arrives, not after. Climate action is not about spending for the sake of spending; it's about making smart investments today that help avoid bigger costs tomorrow."
Supporting a safer Saskatoon
The Climate Action Strategy is designed to help the City manage climate-related risks and strengthen community resilience in the face of growing climate impacts, including heatwaves, flooding, wildfire smoke and severe storms. By looking forward, the Strategy supports efforts to protect public safety, maintain reliable City services, safeguard critical infrastructure and improve readiness for increasingly frequent and severe weather events.
Actions identified in the Strategy include: measuring indoor air quality in civic buildings to help ensure safe public spaces during wildfire smoke events; considering climate risk in City planning and infrastructure projects; and supporting homeowners in improving the climate resilience of their properties. The Strategy also supports good municipal governance by providing a long-term framework for risk management and informed decision-making. Taking proactive steps today can reduce future risks, help avoid costly disruptions and repairs, and better position Saskatoon to respond to changing conditions.
Supporting a healthier Saskatoon
The Climate Action Strategy guides climate action that supports public health, quality of life and community well-being. Climate-related impacts such as extreme heat, poor air quality from wildfire smoke and severe weather can affect residents in different ways, particularly vulnerable populations. By helping the community adapt to changing environmental conditions, the Strategy supports healthy, livable neighbourhoods while reflecting Saskatoon’s local needs, priorities and evolving circumstances.
Actions identified in the Strategy include: partnering to increase food security and local food production; installing solar panels on City-owned lands; and maintaining, renewing and growing the urban forest to help improve air quality, provide shade and enhance community well-being. Together, these actions contribute to more resilient neighbourhoods and a healthier city that is better equipped to respond to future environmental and public health challenges.
Supporting a more prosperous Saskatoon
The Climate Action Strategy supports a strong and resilient local economy by encouraging responsible, forward-looking planning and stewardship of public resources. By acting today, the City can help reduce long-term costs, protect community assets, strengthen economic resilience and ensure responsible use of taxpayer dollars. Acting proactively can help avoid expensive repairs, service disruptions and emergency response costs while positioning Saskatoon to take advantage of future opportunities as technologies, government policies and funding programs evolve.
Actions identified in the Strategy include: updating design standards for City parks and green spaces to reduce watering needs; developing local reuse and recycling markets to reduce waste and create markets for reusable products; and supporting industry in preparing for future energy-efficiency requirements for new homes and buildings.
Residents can learn more about the Climate Action Strategy and access the full document on the Environment, Utilities, and Corporate Services Agenda or visit the project’s Engage Page for further details.
City Administration proposes utility-based funding model for multi-unit garbage service
July 29, 2026 - 4:15pm
The City Administration recommends a shift to a utility-funded model for multi-unit residential garbage service, moving away from a property tax-based funding model. A report will be presented to City Council’s Standing Policy Committee on Environment, Utilities and Corporate Services (EU&CS) next Tuesday, August 4.
“Transitioning to a utility-funded model is an important step toward a more transparent and equitable waste management system,” says Brock Storey, Environmental Operations Manager. “Under the proposed approach, properties would pay directly for the garbage services they receive, based on bin size and collection frequency.”
At present, multi-unit garbage collection is funded through property taxes, meaning all property taxpayers contribute to the service regardless of whether they receive it. The City currently provides weekly garbage collection to over 80% of the Saskatoon’s multi-unit properties. Under the proposed model, the costs of collection, disposal and program administration would be recovered through utility fees, rather than through property taxes. This change would align multi-unit properties with the City’s curbside collection program which shifted to a utility-funded model for garbage in 2024.
If Administration's recommendations are endorsed by Committee, they will be presented to City Council at its meeting on August 26. If approved, Administration will begin developing the utility framework, billing systems and customer communications required to support the transition. The new funding model is recommended to take effect in January 2028.
Saskatoon Transit bylaw approved by City Council
July 29, 2026 - 12:23pm
- Fare payment and pass use;
- Customer responsibilities while riding transit, including keeping aisles clear respecting operators and fellow passengers, and protecting Transit property;
- Authority to address unacceptable behaviour and, where necessary, remove individuals from Transit property or restrict future access; and
- Administrative enforcement measures and appeal processes
Saskatoon City Council approved a new Transit bylaw today. The bylaw establishes clear, modern rules for using Saskatoon Transit and helps create a safer, cleaner and more comfortable experience for riders and employees.
“The vast majority of our customers use transit respectfully every day,” said Michael Moellenbeck, Director of Saskatoon Transit. “This bylaw sets clear expectations for everyone using the system and provides additional tools to address behaviours that impact safety, accessibility and the customer experience.”
The new bylaw replaces the existing fare bylaw and introduces a single framework covering fares, customer conduct, Transit property and enforcement measures.
What the approved bylaw covers:
The bylaw also establishes Saskatoon Transit fares and fees, including fare rates effective September 1, 2026 and future fare adjustments scheduled for January 1, 2027.
Saskatoon Transit will introduce The Transit Code, a public awareness campaign to help customers understand the new bylaw and the expectations for safe, respectful transit travel. Learn more at saskatoontransit.ca/Bylaw.
City of Saskatoon modernizes online public engagement experience
July 28, 2026 - 11:00am
Residents can now more easily share their feedback on City projects and initiatives with the launch of a modernized Engage Saskatoon webpage. The upgraded page makes it simple to explore current engagement projects, stay informed and provide feedback on initiatives that matter the most to you.
"We're excited to launch a modern platform that makes it easier for people to discover and connect with City projects and share their perspectives," says Carla Blumers, Director of Communications and Public Engagement. "Public feedback plays an important role in shaping City programs and initiatives, and this new online hub creates more opportunities for residents to provide their input.
Designed with users in mind, the new Engage Saskatoon webpage offers a streamlined experience and allows the City to provide a variety of ways to participate, ranging from surveys, discussion forums, interactive maps and polls. Community members who choose to create an account can follow projects that interest them, receive updates and personalize their engagement experience, making it easier to stay connected to City initiatives and opportunities for public input.
A new Development Applications Hub also brings together engagement opportunities on land use and development applications in one convenient location, making it easier for residents to find information and share feedback.
Engage Saskatoon is designed to be both approachable, accessible and easy to use, supporting the City's commitment to meaningful public participation on civic matters.
"Whether you live, work or play in Saskatoon, you’re invited to create an account, explore current opportunities and help shape the future of our city," Blumers says.
Visit Engage Saskatoon to learn more and get started.
Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre reopening delayed
July 23, 2026 - 1:30pm
The reopening of Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre has been delayed and the facility will not open in fall 2026 as previously anticipated.
During inspection and testing of the pool, deficiencies were identified that must be corrected before the project can proceed to pool tiling and finishing. The contractor is addressing these issues. While a confirmed reopening date is not yet available, the City is currently projecting a winter opening.
“While we know this update is disappointing for residents and user groups who have been looking forward to the reopening of Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre, it is important that the remaining work be completed properly before the facility opens,” says Dan Willems, Director of Technical Services. “We appreciate the patience of clubs, user groups and the community as we work toward reopening the facility.”
When Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre reopens, it will continue to serve a range of community needs within the City’s aquatic system, including training, instruction, club programming, public swimming and other aquatic recreation opportunities. The work underway is part of a major renewal project that will modernize key aquatic and building systems, improve accessibility and help ensure Harry Bailey Aquatic Centre can continue serving the community for years to come.
For project updates and information, visit saskatoon.ca/harrybailey.
Memorial tree positive for DED, City saddened at necessary removal
July 16, 2026 - 10:30am
- Not storing, transporting, selling, purchasing or burning elm wood or branches at any time. These actions are illegal.
- Not pruning elm trees during the provincial pruning ban from April 1 to August 31. Pruning during this time attracts elm bark beetles, which can spread the disease to healthy trees.
- Disposing of all elm wood immediately at the City Landfill, where disposal is free.
Do not take elm wood to the Compost Depot or place it in your green bin.
Sadly, after testing positive for Dutch Elm Disease (DED), the City must take immediate action and remove one of the trees along the Memorial Avenue of Trees at Woodlawn Cemetery.
“This is a difficult thing to have to do and an action we have to take with a heavy heart,” says Director of Parks, Thai Hoang. “While any historic elm that must be removed is a loss, this hits a bit harder.”
The positive result came back earlier this week and according to the City’s DED rapid response plan, the elm must be immediately removed.
“The City has taken measures to protect these trees as much as is practical including inoculating trees against Dutch Elm Disease,” Hoang says. “However, that is not a fail-safe and because of the high likelihood of root grafting between trees, the disease easily spreads.”
The Memorial Avenue of Trees in Woodlawn cemetery was created at the urging of the Imperial Order of the Daughters of the Empire (IODE) to commemorate the men and women who had fallen during the First World War.
“It’s not simply a public memorial, but an intensely personal one -- none of these men was ever coming home,” says City Archivist Jeff O’Brien. “There would be no grave here in Saskatoon for people to stand at, no place to put flowers on, but you could have a tree in Woodlawn Cemetery -- growing in celebration of the specific person that had been lost.”
The tree that is being removed is in memory of, “The Officers of the Forever Scotland Camp.” While not dedicated to a specific soldier, sailor, nurse or airman, O’Brien says the memorial is just as important.
“The Memorial Avenue of Trees is unique in Canada, for the simple reason that it still exists,” O’Brien says. “There were at one time a number of these arboreal memorials in many cities such as Victoria, Montreal and Winnipeg, for example, but over the years, they’ve all been cut down.”
The Memorial Avenue of Trees is a National Historic Site. Parks Canada has been notified of the pending removal.
The Parks department will follow the direction of City Council in 1922 when it promised the IODE that it would replace the trees if necessary. This has been done as trees have previously died from drought or other issues.
Residents can take a few simple actions to help prevent the spread of DED by:
For more information about DED and to learn how to recognize the warning signs, visit saskatoon.ca/dutchelmdisease.
Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo celebrates birth of baby caribou
July 13, 2026 - 10:00am
The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo is celebrating the birth of a baby caribou, an exciting addition that highlights the Zoo’s commitment to conservation, education and animal welfare.
The male calf was born on Thursday, June 25, 2026, to mother Mira. He weighed 9.4 kilograms at birth and has since grown to 12.8 kilograms. Mom and baby are currently receiving care behind the scenes while the Zoo’s Animal Care Specialists closely monitor their progress and support this important early bonding period. The pair are expected to begin exploring their habitat this week.
The calf has been named Lyall Petrie in honour of Dr. Lyall Petrie, who was a mentor and friend to hundreds of veterinary students at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine in large animal medicine. Dr. Petrie passed away on May 5, 2026.
“Our Animal Care Specialists are providing Mira and her calf with the time, space and support they need during these important early days,” said Jeff Mitchell, Zoo Manager, Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo. “It is especially meaningful to name this calf Lyall Petrie in honour of Dr. Petrie, whose guidance, generosity and dedication left a lasting mark on so many in the veterinary community.”
Visitors can expect to see Lyall gradually become more active, stay close to Mira and begin exploring the caribou habitat as the pair continue to settle in. Visibility may vary from day to day as our team continue to prioritize the health, comfort and routine of both animals.
Caribou, also known as reindeer, are the same species, Rangifer tarandus. Listed as Vulnerable, caribou face risks including habitat loss, human development and climate change. They are well adapted to cold climates, with a dense undercoat and longer hollow guard hairs for warmth. Their broad hooves help them move across snow and soft ground, and both males and females grow antlers.
The Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo is proud to support the Caribou Conservation Alliance. The birth of this calf helps raise awareness about the importance of protecting caribou and their habitats for future generations.
Plan your next visit and learn more about the Saskatoon Zoo animals, conservation work and programs at saskatoon.ca/zoo.
Unlawful sale of bear spray results in $7K fine for business on 500 block, 20th Street West
July 8, 2026 - 2:37pm
A Saskatoon Court has imposed a $7,000 penalty on a business convicted of unlawfully selling bear spray and failing to record the information of the buyer. The total fine, which includes a $2,000 victim surcharge pursuant to The Victims of Crime Act, is $1,500 for unlawfully selling the bear spray and $3,500 for failing to record the buyer’s information.
The decision, made in Saskatoon Bylaw Court June 30, was the first fine issued by the Court under the City’s updated Business Licence Bylaw. Earlier this year, with help from officials in the City Community Standards Department, the Saskatoon Police Service accused a business operating in the 500 block of 20th Street, West of breaking the Bylaw.
“One of the primary goals of the bylaw changes is deterrence,” says Mark Wilson, City of Saskatoon Licensing and Permitting Manager. “Since City Council made the amendments to the bylaw, we’ve subsequently heard from multiple retailers who have decided to stop selling bear spray.”
City Council passed the amendments a year ago. They require a purchaser to be at least 18-years-old and provide two pieces of government-issued identification. The name, ID number, date of birth and address of the purchaser must be recorded by the business and made available to the City.
The bear spray must be stored in a secure area, out of view of customers and only products containing the manufacturer’s serial number may be sold.
“Businesses that choose to sell bear spray have a responsibility to do so in accordance with the amendments to the Business License Bylaw. When violations are identified, enforcement helps maintain the integrity of those regulations and supports the collective efforts of police, the City, retailers and the community,” says Doug McNeil, Inspector in charge of the Saskatoon Police Service Community Engagement Division.
“We support measures that promote responsible sales and help reduce opportunities for misuse. Compliance with the bylaw is an important part of a broader community effort to improve public safety.”
Wildlife control products, commonly referred to as bear spray, are designed to repel wildlife through spraying pressurized liquid containing oil made from hot peppers. It causes burning eyes, strained breathing as well as nasal and throat irritation.
The product is not intended for use on humans or in an urban setting.
Police officers and City officials have engaged business managers to ensure they understand the bylaw requirements which have received wide support.
Court information # 110949
New disc golf course opens at Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park
July 8, 2026 - 1:00pm
There is now one more reason to visit the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park with the opening of a new nine-hole disc golf course.
“We’re excited to add disc golf to the experiences available at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park,” said Jeff Mitchell, manager of the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo. “It’s a great way to get active outdoors, enjoy the park and try something new. We invite everyone to come out and give the course a try.”
Players of all skill levels are welcome to bring their discs and enjoy the course while visiting the park. The course begins east of the fishing pond and is available on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations are required.
The Forestry Farm Park is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Visit saskatoon.ca/forestryfarm to plan your next visit.