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August 2026
Note: Some email platforms distort the Rural Sheaf (RS) formatting. The RS looks best when viewed as a webpage through your internet browser.
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| | In this edition of the Rural Sheaf... | |
- Advocacy
- 2026 SARM Midterm Resolution Deadline
- Strategic Communications
- Update Council Member Details on SARM Website for Midterm Badges
- 2027 Lieutenant Governor's Award Nominations
- 2026 Midterm & 2027 Annual Convention Accommodations
- SARM Online Calendar - September 2026
- #RuralMatters
- Insurance & Benefits
- Saskatchewan Blue Cross EFAP Coverage for SARM Members
- Legal Services
- Programs
- Invasive Plant Control Program Claim Deadline
- RIRG Project 2026 Intake
- SARM Learning
- New Headversity Courses Available
- Member Purchasing
- Supplier Highlight: Office Supply Program
- Community Planning
- Finance & Administration
- SARM Classifieds
- Member Services
- HR Services for SARM Members
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- Rail Safety Improvement Program
- 2026 Pre-Budget Consultations
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- Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency Recovery Task Team Virtual Town Hall
- Provincial Traffic Safety Fund Grant Program
- Strychnine Training Now Available
- Targeted Sector Support (TSS) Initiative - Now Reviewing Applications Monthly
- Municipalities Today - August 2026
- Announcements
- Crop Report for the Period of August 11-17, 2026
- Discover Sask Parks: August 19 to September 2
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- Water Use Study
- Sun Safety Study
- Communities Across Saskatchewan Invited to Support Youth Safety Education Day
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SARM’s Advocacy Team, at the direction of the SARM Board of Directors, meets and speaks with members and outside agencies on issues important to RMs, including bringing concerns forth at the provincial and federal levels.
SARM, through its Act of Incorporation, is mandated to work on files of importance to rural municipalities (RM) and agriculture producers.
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2026 SARM Midterm
Resolution Deadline
The deadline to submit resolutions for the 2026 SARM Midterm Convention is Sunday, October 4, 2026, end of day.
Resolutions must be received in the SARM office by this date in order to be addressed at the upcoming convention and included in the convention guide.
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Each resolution must be emailed separately using the fillable submission form.
Please email resolutions to resolutions@sarm.ca.
Refer to the Resolution Writing Tips One Pager and the Resolution Submission Form linked below for details.
| | | SARM’s Strategic Communications Team leads the initiatives, events, and public-facing components of the work we do for RMs. Strategic Communications is responsible for our conventions, the Rural Dart, Rural Sheaf, Rural Councillor, webinars, and many other events and initiatives. | | |
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Update Council Member Details on SARM Website for Midterm Badges
Don't forget to update the RM Directory on the SARM website. This will ensure that SARM and the public are kept up to date with current RM council details.
The RM Directory is also used to populate the information for SARM's convention name badges.
To access your RM Directory profile on the SARM website, please log in here and click on the “Manage your RM Directory Listing” link that is located under the Administrator’s Access for Updates heading on the Members Only homepage.
If you require any assistance, please contact coordinator@sarm.ca.
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Lieutenant Governor's Award for
Outstanding Service to Rural Saskatchewan
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Do you know a reeve, councillor, or administrator with an inspiring story?
Nominations for the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Outstanding Service to Rural Saskatchewan are now open!
The 2027 nomination period runs until December 31, 2026.
To submit a nomination or request a nomination form, please contact:
Kathleen Israel,
Selection Committee Secretary
executivecoordinator@sarm.ca or 306.761.3731
2301 Windsor Park Road,
Regina, Saskatchewan S4V 3A4
To learn more about this award and how to submit a nomination, refer to the LGA Guidelines Document linked below or visit the SARM website.
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2026 Midterm & 2027 Annual Convention Accommodations
Be sure to book your hotel stays in advance to take advantage of the hotel blocks that have been set aside for delegates during SARM's annual and midterm conventions. Hotel blocks are limited, so once they have been filled there is no guaranteed space/pricing.
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Saskatoon Hotel Blocks:
- Best Western Plus East Side
- Best Western Airport
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Delta Bassborough (only available for 2027 annual - under construction for 2026 midterm)
- Delta Hotels Saskatoon Downtown
- TownPlace Suites by Marriott Saskatoon
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SARM Online Calendar - September 2026
View the SARM Online Calendar to access the full year on the SARM website. This version is updated regularly as new dates of interest and deadlines are identified and should be viewed as the most current.
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Deadlines
September 1:
- To publicize previous year’s financial statement / summary and auditor’s report
- For owners of O&G wells and pipelines to submit statements (MA S.201(8))
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To assess nominal amount for O&G Equip that has had no production in the 12 month period ending July 1
- To publicize waterworks annual financial overview
September 10:
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To remit taxes to SMHI, C&D and regional parks
- To submit & return monthly EPT funds
September 15:
- To submit CRA source deductions
- To send supplementary property tax notices for properties with SMHI (if applicable)
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September 30
- Earliest cut-off for supplementary assessments. (Not earlier than Sept 30)
Meetings
- Committee Meetings: September 15
- Board Meeting: September 16-17
Monthly Reminder(s)
- MEPP employee and employer contributions through PLANet, as well as submitting payment is due within 15 days from the end of the pay period
Special Days
- Labour Day: September 7
- National Day for Truth and Reconciliation: September 30
| | | | Calling all sponsors! Don’t miss out on your chance to showcase your company to Saskatchewan’s rural municipal leaders at SARM’s fall convention. If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, visit our website to learn more. | | On August 1st, Food Day Canada, SARM celebrated the hardworking producers who help feed Canadians and the world. | | | |
SARM’s Insurance & Benefits Team administers and
facilitates various SARM and external partner insurance and
benefit products, including SARM’s fidelity bond, liability, and
property insurance plans, the SARM Benefits Plan, and external group benefits plans.
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Saskatchewan Blue Cross EFAP
Coverage for SARM Members
The Saskatchewan Blue Cross group benefits plan for SARM members includes enhanced support through Homewood Health and Cleveland Clinic Canada, giving you and your family access to tailored, on-demand support for your mental and physical health.
Homewood Health’s EFAP program connects you to confidential, professional mental health and wellness services. Whether it’s counselling for anxiety, stress, or grief or coaching for work-life balance, parenting, or financial planning, Homewood is here to help. Their Enhanced Mental Health Care program even offers longer-term support for more complex needs, including up to 20 specialized counselling sessions. Register at homeweb.ca to access these resources today.
Cleveland Clinic Canada’s Express Care Online (ECO) service offers on-demand virtual medical consultations for your physical health. Available 24/7 across Canada, ECO lets you connect with a nurse practitioner for diagnoses, prescriptions, specialist referrals, and more—all from the comfort of your home. Simply download the Cleveland Clinic Express Care Online app to get started!
For more information, click the links below.
| | SARM’s Legal Services Team principally represents rural municipalities in legal proceedings where a SARM insurance plan (e.g. Liability Self-Insurance Plan) provides coverage. The team also provides in-house legal services to SARM’s other departments and Board of Directors. In addition, the team provides legal services to individual RMs, which can include researching legal issues, drafting opinions, and drafting agreements, on a fee-for-service basis and as time permits. | | |
| SARM’s Programs Team engages with provincial and federal governments, industry leaders, and program partners, as well as other stakeholders, to effectively deliver SARM programs. | | |
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Invasive Plant Control Program
Claim Deadline
October 31, 2026
| | To learn more about the Invasive Plant Control Program, scan the QR code or visit the SARM website. | | | | |
RIRG Project 2026 Intake
The RIRG program application intake for road, bridge, and large diameter culvert projects will be opening on September 1, 2026. The deadline to apply is November 15, 2026.
| | For more information, please visit the RIRG website, linked below, or email info@rirg.ca with any questions or concerns. | | |
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SARM Learning
SARM is launching its new municipal education program this fall called SARM Learning. One of the main priorities for SARM Learning is orientation support for newly elected officials and we are introducing three new resources!
| | “What Are You Getting Into” | | A one-pager that outlines some key messages from SARM to potential candidates for municipal government. It is designed to be given with other information from the municipal office to those deciding whether or not to run for office. | | | “What Have You Gotten Into” | | This booklet is a tool for administrators to use with newly elected council members before their first meeting. | | | |
Foundations
in Municipal Leadership
Seminar
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This one-day seminar is scheduled to be offered in a community near you in early December.
Dates:
- December 8, 2026 – Swift Current
- December 11, 2026 – Weyburn
- December 15, 2026 – North Battleford
- December 16, 2026 – Humboldt
Registration for these seminars is scheduled to open shortly!
| | | For more information about these resources, as well as other SARM Learning events and programs, please visit the SARM website linked below. | | New Headversity Courses Available | | | Respect in the Workplace CERT is a quick, interactive training program to help you navigate challenges and create a culture you love. You'll gain practical skills to recognize, prevent, and respond to harmful behaviours like bullying, abuse, harassment, and discrimination - all while strengthening connections within your team. | | | Mental Health Foundations CERT provides the essential knowledge and strategies you need to manage stress, prevent burnout, and foster resilience in the workplace. The program will equip you with actionable tools to maintain your energy, purpose, and wellbeing - so you can show up as your best self personally and professionally! | | | |
Each course is only 40 minutes in length and will be followed up with mini lessons to reinforce the learning you’ve gained.
There is a new cost associated with the course registration. Pricing will be $15 per person for the first course taken and $7.50 per person for the second course taken.
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To get started:
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Scan the QR code found on the one-pager to access on the web or mobile app. Or use the following link: apps.headversity.com/login
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Register with your e-mail address and invite code SARMCERT
- Both courses will be available once registered.
| | | SARM's Member Purchasing Team provides group purchasing and procurement advising services to save member municipalities money and time through the buying and procuring processes with the goal of being the first stop for all municipalities’ purchasing and procurement needs. | | |
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Office Supply Program
As a one-stop solution for all office supplies, Canoe has partnered with Staples Professional to provide members with everything from pens to cleaning equipment, furniture to computers, and promotional materials to coffee supplies. Members get access to preferential pricing, free shipping on orders over $50, and next-day delivery to almost anywhere in Canada.
| | | SARM’s Community Planning Team is driven by a proactive and collaborative approach with municipalities to support growth, certainty for investment and landowners, and the protection and promotion of what already exists in the community. | | |
| SARM’s Finance and Administration Team provides the budgeting, accounting, and reporting functions for SARM, the Insurance and Benefits Funds, all externally funded programs, and the Tax Loss Compensation Trust Funds administered by SARM. In addition, the team provides administrative assistance performing reception duties that include being the first point of contact for all guests and SARM members both in-person as well as virtually by phone and email. | | |
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SARM Classifieds
The following municipalities/towns/villages have requested the information below to be distributed and will be billed for using this service.
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Looking to Hire:
RM of Craik No. 222, Administrator, Aug 29 - Close
RM of Excelsior No. 166, Administrator, Aug 31 - Close
RM of Huron No. 223, Patrol Operator, Aug 31 - Close
RM of Poplar Valley No. 12, Mower Operator, Sept 5 - Close
RM of Big Stick No. 141 & Village of Golden Prairie, Municipal Administrator, Sept 6 - Close
RM of Spiritwood No. 496, Assistant Administrator, Sept 11 - Close
RM of McKillop No. 220, Public Works Equipment Operator, Sept 12 - Close
RM of Willow Creek No. 458, Public Works Equipment Operator, Sept 13 - Close
Town of La Ronge, Director of Public Works, Sept 13 - Close
RM of Tecumseh No. 65, Grader/General Operator, Sept 13 - Close
Town of Swan River, MB, Chief Administrative Officer, Sept 17 - Close
RM of Blaine Lake No. 434, Seasonal Maintenance/Equipment Operator, Sept 23 - Close
RM of Tramping Lake No. 380, Foreman, Sept 20 - Close
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Looking to Buy/Sell:
There are no active buy/sell ads.
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Ad Submissions
Ad postings for the SARM Classifieds can be submitted
through our online submission forms. For questions, contact 306.757.3577 or sarm@sarm.ca.
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| SARM’s Member Services Team is dedicated to providing valuable services that meet the specific needs of SARM's member rural municipalities. | | |
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HR Services for SARM Members
SARM now offers Human Resources consulting services to members across Saskatchewan. We understand that this is a need for many RMs, and we are excited to offer advice and support on a wide range of HR issues. RM’s can access services including advice on people issues, hiring, terminations, performance management, compensation, recruitment, retention, change management, conflict resolution, training and many other HR related issues.
Our new HR service is being offered through our partner Knibbs HR Consulting. Knibbs HR is a Métis-owned Saskatchewan firm that has been supporting organizations since 2002 with practical, people-first HR solutions rooted in respect, clarity, and partnership. Their work helps organizations bring strategy, culture, and people systems into alignment while strengthening the internal confidence and capability of leaders and teams. Known for their objectivity, compassion, and actionability, Knibbs HR explains the “why,” shares knowledge generously, and leaves workplaces more equipped than when they arrived. Whether developing HR tools, guiding difficult conversations, shaping culture, or coaching leaders through change, they remain grounded in practical professionalism. Learn more at www.knibbs.ca.
This HR Service principally provides rural municipalities with advice on people issues. Our HR Service also works in collaboration with our Legal Services team, or your usual legal counsel, to provide holistic advice and opinions when employment matters necessitate.
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Fees:
- $230 per hour for HR Consulting
- $95 per hour for Administrative and Support Services
How to Access Services:
If you have a human resources inquiry or require HR services, you can contact: hr@sarm.ca.
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Rail Safety Improvement Program
Transport Canada's Rail Safety Improvement Program (RSIP) provides federal funding for projects that improve safety at high-risk rail crossings and along rail lines.
The program supports investments in infrastructure, technologies, research, education, and public awareness to help reduce collisions, derailments, injuries, and fatalities.
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Infrastructure, Technology, and Research Stream
Applications for funding will be accepted until September 4, 2026.
| | This stream provides funding for projects that improve safety on and around rail property and rail lines. The available funding for the Infrastructure, Technology, and Research stream is up to $52.7 million over three fiscal years, beginning in 2026-27. | | | |
2026 Pre-Budget Consultations
This fall, the Government of Canada will deliver Budget 2026, which will update Canadians on the government’s progress on its plan to Build Canada Strong over the past year, while continuing to support Canadians and businesses and positioning the country for long-term prosperity. This includes measures that strengthen economic growth, improve affordability, and support the next generation of Canada’s workforce.
Pre-Budget consultations are an opportunity for Canadians from across the country to share their ideas and priorities on how to shape Canada’s future. Join the conversation by responding to our questionnaire below or sending in a formal submission, both of which can be submitted until September 8, 2026.
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Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency Recovery Task Team Virtual Town Hall
The Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency (SPSA) is inviting your administrators to a virtual town hall hosted by the Recovery Task Team (RTT) to help answer questions related to flood recovery and accessing provincial supports. The town hall will include a presentation from the Ministry of Saskbuilds and Procurement on procurement and how local authorities can piggyback government requisitions and purchasing.
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Event Details:
Date: September 9, 2026
Time: 10-11:30 a.m.
Meeting ID: 292 900 959 007 817
Passcode: cg9TL3mD
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Strychnine Training Now Available
Producers in the 208 RMs eligible for Emergency Use of strychnine can register for online training through Saskatchewan’s Strychnine Stewardship Program.
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The 90-minute course is mandatory to access two per cent liquid strychnine for targeted RGS control. Early completion of training is recommended to allow sufficient time for records to be shared with RM offices and for users to be registered when product becomes available.
Training can be accessed on the SARM website.
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While initial strychnine supplies will be limited this spring, those interested are encouraged to complete training ahead of the recommended late summer application window, July 15 to Sept. 1.
For more on the program, including a list of participating RMs and information on product distribution, see Saskatchewan.ca/RGS-Control.
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Targeted Sector Support Initiative
Now Reviewing Applications Monthly
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The Targeted Sector Support (TSS) Initiative is a cost-shared grant program that uses a portion of Municipal Revenue Sharing ($1.5 million per fiscal year) to support projects that strengthen municipalities’ core operational capabilities through increased regional cooperation.
Projects under this program are intended to assist in supporting more efficient and effective municipal service delivery, and enhanced governance and administrative capacity in Saskatchewan. Partnering municipalities can apply for up to 75 per cent on eligible project costs to strengthen their core municipal responsibilities.
Applications are now being accepted on a rolling basis and will be reviewed monthly for decisions.
The updated application guide can be found on the SARM website.
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Water Use Study
Are you involved in water management, water use, planning, policy, agriculture, energy, or municipal water decision-making?
The University of Vermont is conducting a study in partnership with the University of Saskatchewan, “Developing and Integrating a Social Water Use Model,” funded by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). You are invited to complete a short anonymous survey to help identify water-use challenges, climate-related threats, and adaptive management strategies for your region.
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Time: 15 + minutes
Who: Adults 18+ with water management or water-use
expertise
Participation: Voluntary and anonymous
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The deadline to complete the survey is August 31, 2026. | | | | |
Sun Safety Study
Participate in a sun safety study for farmers and agricultural workers!
About the Study
Workers who spend a lot of time outdoors, including farmers and agricultural workers, are at increased risk of skin cancer from sun exposure.
This study will assess the use of smartphone messages to help farmers and agricultural workers learn how to work safely in the sun.
How to Participate
To participate, fill out the interest form linked below before September 15, 2026.
| | | SARM is now on Bluesky! Follow us here: @sarm.ca | | | | |
