Mariposa explores potential new gravel source
By Stu Salkeld
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Your West Central Voice
KERROBERT—The R.M. of Mariposa is moving ahead with plans to explore a potential new gravel source after council reviewed contractor quotes for exploration work at its June 9 regular meeting.
Chief Administrative Officer Kathy Wurz said council considered track hoe contractor quotes for gravel exploration on a privately owned property where the municipality has reached an agreement with the landowner to investigate potential gravel deposits. Wurz said the work is expected to take place this fall.
NEW SHOP TAKES SHAPE. Construction of the R.M. of Mariposa's new Public Works shop was well underway in August 2025. The municipality will host an official grand opening and public open house July 24, giving residents an opportunity to tour the facility. Photo courtesy R.M. of Mariposa Facebook page.
Recreation report
Council received a recreation committee report that included updates on maintenance work at the Kerrobert swimming pool. Leaking pipes were recently repaired, and it was noted the facility may require sandblasting work in the future.
The report also noted new signs have been installed at both the arena and the Prairieland Community Centre.
CAO report
Wurz presented her regular administrative report, which included an update on crop reporting. She advised council that the municipality's crop report had been submitted before the deadline.
Council also received the plant health officer's spring update, which covered invasive plants and pest management issues, including gophers.
Wurz further updated council on the Highway 31 study. Engineers were scheduled to assess the condition of the highway, but the inspection was delayed because of rain.
Municipal government training
Council was advised that Mariposa is eligible to participate remotely in the Government Essentials for Municipal Sector program, a 10-module course covering topics such as municipal history, governance, finances, stewardship, roles and responsibilities. Participants receive a certificate upon completion.
Public works shop grand opening
The municipality will celebrate the official grand opening of its new Public Works shop on July 24 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The facility opened in the fall of 2025, and the event will feature a barbecue and an opportunity for residents to tour the building.
Boundary Road concerns
Council reviewed a letter from a ratepayer expressing concerns about overweight traffic using Boundary Road and the potential for road damage.
Wurz said municipal staff contacted several industry partners, who indicated they take weight restrictions seriously.
Summer staff training
Municipal summer staff have begun specialized training programs, including pesticide application certification and other required training.
Strychnine program update
Wurz also provided an update on the federal government's reintroduction of the two per cent liquid strychnine program, which began rolling out this spring.
She said the program involves extensive reporting requirements for both municipalities and producers, as well as significant signage requirements. Wurz has completed the necessary training, and producers must also complete mandatory training before they are eligible to purchase the product.
However, Wurz noted relatively few producers appear to have completed the required training to date.
She added that reports indicate suppliers may begin shipping strychnine soon, although municipalities may initially receive limited quantities to ensure product is available across all regions.