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No ordinary paint job: Iconic prairie image set for a rejuvenation

Published: July 22, 2019

One of the largest murals in Western Canada reflects Enbridge’s deep roots in Saskatchewan



To Enbridge, it’s known simply as Tank 79.

But to a generation of Saskatchewan residents, it’s become a local landmark synonymous with the City of Regina, and the beauty and majesty of the surrounding prairie landscape and its wildlife.

“The mural reflects Enbridge’s deep roots in Saskatchewan and was created to emphasize the importance of protecting the environment, as well as our connection and commitment to landowners and communities throughout the province,” says Eldon Strachan, manager of Enbridge’s operations in the Regina region.

The mural features a prairie scene with farmyards, wheat fields, native grass, cattails, a white-tailed deer and a piping plover bird as its main features.

Created in 1998, the iconic image—visible to passing motorists on the Ring Road interchange on the north side of Regina – will be restored to its former glory beginning in late July.

This is no ordinary paint job. At a running length of 285 feet and height of 35 feet, covering some 9,975 square feet, it’s one of the largest murals in Western Canada.

Enbridge has commissioned a team of local artists familiar with large-scale murals for the physical restoration work, with technical support from paint manufacturers and industrial coating experts. Weather permitting, the restoration will take about 90 days to complete.

“The paint had begun to deteriorate to the point where we were needed to make a decision between removing the mural or investing time and money to recreate it,” explains Strachan. “This iconic image has also become a symbol of pride for our Saskatchewan-based employees, who recognized its historical significance and its symbolic importance to Enbridge and Saskatchewan—and insisted on its preservation.

“We’re pleased to be restoring this mural during a year when we are also celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Enbridge Mainline pipeline system, which began with Line 1 construction in Saskatchewan in 1950,” he adds. “As a company, it’s important for Enbridge to look back on our past even as we look forward to continuing to deliver the energy North Americans want and need.”

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