The RM of Cartier recently made some decisions in relation to the Assiniboine River Basin Initiative (ARBI). Reeve Dale Fossay says concerns ARBI deals with have a great impact on the RM.

Reeve Dale Fossay (far left) "The Assiniboine River Basin Initiative was set up a year or two ago, and I guess their mandate is to look at all issues regarding waterflow down the Assiniboine River. As that has a direct impact on Cartier as we are bordering on the Assiniboine quite a bit, we decided a couple of years ago to become a member. And now, I guess, they asked us for some annual financial support. So, we approved."

He notes the benefits involved.

"I guess (they're) long-term. The Assiniboine River receives all the water from a far distance in Western Canada. It goes through our municipality. So, as far as any efforts to mitigate high water flow are concerned, certainly we feel it's important to be around the decision table and lobbying table, for sure."

Having also joined the Red River Basin Initiative, Fossay says such membership provides a voice for residents.

"Well, certainly with all of these organizations which are grassroots, we feel as council it's our job to be the voice for our local citizens who are affected by these waterways. So, we certainly see value in being an active member."