SGI says the cuts will save about $300,000 a year. (CBC)

Saskatchewan’s province-owned bus company says it hopes to drop three routes by the middle of May.

The Saskatchewan Transportation Company says the three routes aren’t being used enough. It says the cuts will save the company $300,000 per year.

The affected routes are:

• Blaine Lake – North Battleford.
• Regina – Lanigan via Nokomis and Watrous.
• Eastend – Swift Current/Mossbank.

STC says the Blaine Lake – North Battleford route averaged one rider per trip over the last four years.The company says the other two routes averaged two passengers per trip over the past five years.

Many Saskatchewan businesses and farmers also rely on STC to deliver freight such as parts and equipment.

Cuts could happen in May

STC says that other freight options are available in those communities, at rates similar to those of the bus company.

The decision has to be approved by the Highway Traffic Board. STC hopes the cut will take effect May 18.

According to the company's 2011 annual report, STC required a $8.8-million subsidy from the province to balance its books. It also noted ridership was up 7.4 per cent from the previous year.