Shortline railways have made a resurgence as part of a network for efficient grain delivery in the province. A few of them have also been contributors to the tourism industry with summer-based tourist experiences on Wheatland Rail from Wakaw to Cudworth and Red Coat Road and Rail operating out of Ogema.  

On April 5, Highways Minister Lori Carr announced $530,000 in funding to help maintain the infrastructure for the transportation ventures.  

"Short line railways play an important role in getting Saskatchewan's food, fuel and fertilizer on their journeys to worldwide markets, which helps keep our export-based economy strong to sustain our quality of life," Carr said. "We are proud to invest in this transportation sector as it is essential to keeping our great and growing province strong." 

The dollars will go toward track upgrades and expansion, improved crossings and sightlines, bridge maintenance and other projects for the following operators: 

  • Big Sky Rail, Delisle (Eston, Elrose region) $87,035 

  • Carlton Trail Railway (Saskatoon to Prince Albert area) $37,515 

  • Great Sandhills Railway (Swift Current to Leader area) $43,089 

  • Great Western Railway (Assiniboia, Shaunavon, Coronach area) $129,909 

  • Last Mountain Railway (Regina to Davidson) $29,155 

  • Long Creek Railroad (west of Estevan) $25,000 

  • Northern Lights Rail (west of Melfort) $25,000 

  • Red Coat Road and Rail (Ogema area) $25,000 

  • Southern Rails Cooperative (south of Moose Jaw) $25,000  

  • Stewart Southern Railway (southwest of Regina to Stoughton) $28,297 

  • Thunder Rail (Arborfield area) $25,000 

  • Torch River Rail (Nipawin to Choiceland area) $25,000 

  • Wheatland Rail (Cudworth, Wakaw area) $25,000 

"By investing in continuous improvements to our tracks, Saskatchewan short line railways ensure that rail is a safe, reliable, and efficient transportation option for agricultural producers, industrial facilities, and Saskatchewan businesses of all sizes," Western Canadian Short Line Railway Association President Andrew Glastetter said. "Many short line railways are community owned, and serve rural communities, while also playing a vital role in the overall supply chain. Short line railways have a positive impact on highways infrastructure, the environment, and rural economies, while transporting freight on infrastructure that is primarily maintained and funded privately. 

Saskatchewan has 13 short line railways operating on 2,123 kilometres of track.