The MLA for Emerson expects it's going to take some time to clean up years of neglect when it comes to infrastructure in Manitoba.

Cliff Graydon said there are so many projects in rural southern Manitoba that need attention especially when it comes to provincial drains.

Municipal officials across the province have complained for years that the provincial drain system is in need of regular maintenance and restoration and has been neglected for too long.

"Farmers have used all the technology available to make their land more productive, not just through surface drainage, but they have put in tile drainage as well. So, we as a government have a responsibility and we are addressing it as quickly as we can with the amount of finances and resources that we have," Graydon said.

The problems and challenges caused by poorly maintained provincial drains was raised at the annual meeting of the Association of Manitoba Municipalities in November where delegates called on the province to create a comprehensive water management study that would include a redesign of provincial drains along with improved maintenance.

"We're trying to work with the municipalities and I know the minister of agriculture has been very clear that wherever a lot of tile drainage was installed, the priority for the province would be to make sure the surface drainage is working as well."

Graydon points out improving drainage in rural Manitoba is only part of the battle when it comes to addressing Manitoba's infrastructure needs. He said the previous NDP government also failed to keep up with demand for highway and road renewal in this part of the province.

"There are a lot of small issues that we need to finish off on the major projects and at the same time address the infrastructure neglect that we inherited from the former administration, both in highways and in drainage."