The existing Cowan Lake Dam is shown. Construction on a replacement dam is expected to begin in summer 2026 and take about two years to complete. (Image Credit: The Water Security Agency)

By Kenneth Cheung

infrastructure

Cowan Lake dam replacement to begin summer 2026, recreation site closing for two years

Feb 3, 2026 | 3:28 PM

The Water Security Agency (WSA) says construction to replace Cowan Lake Dam is scheduled to begin in summer 2026, with officials aiming to improve safety and reliability for the region.

The project will involve replacing the current dam with a modern structure that includes earth embankments and a four-bay concrete radial-gate system. The new control structure and earthen dam will be built just upstream of the existing facility. 

Construction is expected to take about two years, with the new dam anticipated to be ready for service before the 2028 spring runoff. 

The agency said the upgraded dam will include gates designed to control large water flows, as well as a small outlet intended to support a natural-style fishway to allow fish to move past the dam. Additional safety measures will include floating barriers, fencing and clear signage. 

Despite the infrastructure changes, the WSA said water management at the lake – including water levels and outflows – will remain the same. 

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As construction proceeds, the Cowan Lake Dam recreation site will be closed for approximately two years, from summer 2026 to spring 2028. The closure will include the boat launch, with signage planned at entrances, road access points, on the lake and near work areas to notify visitors. 

Here are the renderings for the new dam. (Image Credit: Water Security Agency)

The agency said lake levels will be monitored and continuously managed during construction to remain within normal operating ranges through the use of a gated bypass channel. The project will also use an engineered earthen cofferdam to help maintain Cowan Lake at its current full supply level and reduce disruption during the work. 

“The [WSA] will monitor conditions throughout the construction period to respond to changing circumstances.”

The agency is currently in the procurement process and said it cannot share anticipated project costs. Once procurement is complete, the contracted cost will be posted on SaskTenders and the agency’s website. 

As part of public engagement efforts, the agency will host a come-and-go public information session Feb. 6 from noon to 4 p.m. at Big River Community Centre, where residents and stakeholders can receive updates about upcoming work, potential impacts and how lake operations will be managed during and after construction. Subject-matter experts will be available to answer questions. 

(Image Credit: The Water Security Agency)

Kenneth.Cheung@pattisonmedia.com