The Manitoba government has announced that safety upgrades at Sturgeon Falls in Whiteshell Provincial Park are complete, and that the trail and viewing areas have reopened.
“Our thoughts continue to be with every family affected by a tragedy at this site,” said Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes. “Keeping Manitobans safe is a priority for our government and we moved quickly this summer to complete critical safety upgrades so that another family does not have to suffer this kind of heartbreak.”
The Sturgeon Falls trail was closed in July following the tragic drownings of two children. Last month, the Manitoba government announced it would make a number of safety upgrades at the site. The safety upgrades include:
-fenced viewing areas to provide a safer space for Manitobans to enjoy Sturgeon Falls and prevent public access to hazardous slippery rock areas;
-updated signage to clearly identify drowning hazards at the falls and warn visitors about no swimming, slippery rocks and strong currents; and
-a new portage to provide canoeists and kayakers with ongoing access to and from safe shoreline areas adjacent to the falls.
“We are grateful to the Manitoba government for moving quickly to complete these important safety improvements,” said Allison Baker-Thiessen, owner, Nutimik Lodge. “The new fencing, signage and portage have created safer spaces for families, visitors and paddlers to experience Sturgeon Falls while preserving the natural beauty that makes this area so special. These upgrades will help protect Manitobans and provide greater peace of mind for everyone who visits the site.”
The new fencing and signage will help visitors experience Sturgeon Falls more safely and connect with the lands and waters of the Whiteshell, the minister noted.
“Our government is grateful to the families, community members and local business owners who took the time to share their experiences, perspectives and ideas,” said Moyes. “Their voices played an important role in helping us make these improvements and ensure Sturgeon Falls remains a safe place for Manitobans to enjoy.”
