The Manitoba government plans to invest almost $12 million to upgrade and replace water supply and disposal services to improve waste-water systems in rural communities.

Municipal Government Minister Drew Caldwell announced the support of such water infrastructure will strengthen economies in these areas.

Pipestone is one municipality that will receive $1.85 million for the expansion of a rural water pipeline.

“These projects will provide people with better access to clean water and waste-water disposal, improve the efficiency of local water services and help attract businesses and families to these communities,” said Caldwell, adding that the Manitoba government, along with the Manitoba Water Stewardship Board, will share the cost of the projects with rural communities on a 50-50 basis.

“Working with municipalities, we are finding cost-effective ways to address the need for nutrient control at all regional waste-water treatment facilities and lagoons, which also supports our commitment to safeguard the water quality of Lake Winnipeg for future generations,” he added.

Other collaborative projects include a groundwater study to find a new groundwater source so the town of Russell can meet future water demands and a creating a rural water pipeline connecting the town of Rapid City to the town of Odanah.