WHEREAS due to the policy in place with the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure, mowing of the entire right of ways for Level 2 Highways does not occur; and

WHEREAS this has led to uncontrolled vegetation growth of cattails, willows, poplars and other brush in the highway right of ways for many years; and

WHEREAS this uncontrolled vegetation growth on provincial highway right of ways cause snow problems in the winter and is an ideal harborage for wildlife; and

WHEREAS full right of way mowing of all provincial highways will significantly increase the safety of travelling motorists from these types of dangers;

BE IT RESOLVED that SARM lobby the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure to increase the 2014 budget to allow for sufficient funding for full right of way ditch mowing adjacent to all provincial highways.

RESPONSE FROM HONORABLE DON McMORRIS, MINISTER OF HIGHWAYS & INFRASTRUCTURE

This Resolution is requesting an increase to the 2014 mowing budget for full right of ditch mowing on all provincial highways.

In 2013, the Ministry completed ditch mowing on 37,300 hectares through private mowing contracts at a cost of $2.52 million. Additionally, 2,000 hectares were mowed through partnership agreements with 31 rural municipalities.

The Ministry is challenged by balancing the level of effort placed on mowing against other equally or more important work activities associated with managing a relatively large transportation network including road surface maintenance.

The Ministry uses a strategic approach which focuses on improving safety, visibility and aesthetics for the citizens and tourists traveling provincial highways, while providing farmers and ranchers the opportunity to salvage hay at no charge.