2018 Highway Ditch Mowing Info
The hay salvage and mowing program provides:
- free hay to farmers
- a neat appearance
- improved visibility
- better control of brush and noxious weed growth
- adequate snow storage in ditches during the winter months
Farmers may salvage hay anytime during the spring or summer months. Landowners or lessees nearest/adjacent to the highway ditch have the first option to cut or bale this material unless the mowing contractor has begun salvage.
Cut hay at a uniform height in the ditches. Place hay bales no less than eight metres away from the shoulder of the highway. Hay bales will be removed in locations deemed dangerous for motorists.
The Government of Saskatchewan hires contractors to mow a four-metre-wide swath along the highway shoulders. Mowing may also be completed near some highway intersections and interchanges, railway crossings and tourism facilities.
Key Dates
- June 7 – July 15: Mowing includes a four-metre shoulder cut adjacent to the road. Highways 1, 7, 11, 16 and 39, along with portions of Highways 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9 and 10. Some highway intersections may receive a full ditch cut to ensure good sightlines.
- July 8: Prior to this date, a landowner or lessee nearest to a highway ditch has the first option to cut or bale hay. After this date, anyone may cut and bale hay or grass in a highway ditch without getting the permission of the adjacent landowner.
- July 15 – Oct. 15: Contractors begin mowing the width of ditches along all four-lane highways. All other highways get a four-metre cut adjacent to the highway shoulder.
- August 8: all hay bales must be removed from ditches or they will be removed