Water is one of the most valuable resources on a farm, especially in Saskatchewan where dry conditions can make every drop count. At the same time, protecting local waterways from farm runoff is essential for maintaining clean water, preserving aquatic ecosystems, and meeting environmental regulations. For farmers committed to stewardship, reducing runoff isn’t just about compliance — it’s about ensuring the long-term health of their land and community.
This article offers practical, straightforward steps that Saskatchewan farmers can take to reduce farm runoff and protect water quality without compromising productivity.
Why Does Farm Runoff Matter?
Farm runoff occurs when rainwater or irrigation water flows over the soil surface, picking up nutrients, pesticides, and sediment before entering streams, lakes, or groundwater. This can lead to:
- Water pollution: Excess nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus cause algae blooms that deplete oxygen in water bodies, harming fish and aquatic life.
- Soil loss: Runoff carries away valuable topsoil, reducing fertility and crop yields.
- Legal and reputational risks: Increasingly strict regulations penalise farms that contribute to pollution. Communities also expect farmers to protect local water sources.
Reducing runoff benefits farmers by preserving soil health, lowering input costs, and demonstrating responsible land management that neighbours and consumers appreciate.
Practical Tips to Reduce Farm Runoff
Here are some effective ways to reduce runoff on your farm, tailored to Saskatchewan’s climate and farming systems:
1. Improve Soil Structure and Health
Healthy soil absorbs more water and reduces runoff. To improve soil structure:
- Use cover crops: Crops like peas, oats, or radishes planted during fallow periods improve soil porosity and reduce erosion.
- Minimise tillage: No-till or reduced tillage practices maintain soil aggregates and organic matter.
- Add organic matter: Apply compost or manure to increase water retention capacity.
2. Establish Buffer Zones Along Waterways
Buffer strips are vegetated areas between cropland and water bodies that trap sediment and nutrients before they enter streams or lakes.
- Plant native grasses or shrubs in these zones.
- Maintain buffer widths of at least 3 to 10 metres where possible.
- Keep livestock out of waterways using fencing.
3. Manage Nutrient Applications Carefully
Over-application of fertilisers increases the risk of nutrient runoff.
- Conduct regular soil tests to apply only what crops need.
- Use slow-release fertilisers or split applications.
- Avoid fertilising before heavy rain is forecast.
4. Control Water Flow with Physical Structures
Simple structures can slow water movement and encourage infiltration:
- Grassed waterways: These channels direct runoff while preventing erosion.
- Contour farming: Plough along the contour lines to reduce slope length and runoff speed.
- Retention ponds: Small ponds store runoff water, allowing sediments to settle.
5. Plan Irrigation Wisely
Over-irrigation can cause runoff even in dry areas.
- Schedule irrigation based on crop needs and weather conditions.
- Use efficient irrigation technologies like drip or centre pivots with low pressure.
- Monitor soil moisture regularly.
Benefits Beyond Water Quality
Reducing farm runoff doesn’t just protect water—it also improves your land’s productivity:
- Improved soil fertility: Less erosion means more nutrients stay in the field.
- Increased water availability: Better infiltration means more moisture for crops.
- Reduced input costs: Efficient fertiliser use saves money.
- Enhanced farm resilience: Healthy soils and water systems help farms withstand droughts and floods.
Joining SaskFSA: Support for Stewardship Success
At SaskFSA (Saskatchewan Farm Stewardship Association), we understand the challenges and opportunities involved in protecting water resources while running a productive farm. Our members gain access to:
- Expert advice tailored to Saskatchewan conditions.
- Workshops on best management practices for water and soil conservation.
- Updates on government programs and funding opportunities.
- A network of like-minded farmers committed to sustainable stewardship.
Protecting Saskatchewan’s water is a shared responsibility that benefits us all—our farms, families, and communities. By joining SaskFSA, you become part of a strong group dedicated to practical solutions that safeguard our natural resources for future generations.
Take action today. Protect your water, your soil, and your farm’s future with SaskFSA. Visit our membership page to learn more, or check out our upcoming events.