An idea worth considering...
Dundurn wants RMs to run Blackstrap, not province
By Wendy Gillis, TheStarPhoenix.com
Published: Tuesday, July 22, 2008
SASKATOON - The reeve of the RM of Dundurn will push for Blackstrap Provincial Park to be run regionally at a meeting discussing the park's future tonight in Dundurn.
Fred Wilson says Blackstrap park and ski hill have gone downhill under provincial management, having been allowed to deteriorate in favour of Pike Lake Provincial Park.
Wilson has been reeve of the area for six years, and grew up in Dundurn. He says the park has not been given the attention it needs to meet its full potential.
"Blackstrap's been neglected. There were electrified campsites put in 10, maybe 12 years ago, and the road system has just not been kept up," he said.
He says Pike Lake, located closer to Saskatoon, has been maintained as a provincial park instead of Blackstrap, receiving more funds and recently getting new electrified campsites.
If the park was managed by the municipalities in the region, Wilson says they would significantly increase the facilities offered. They could develop a golf course and swimming pool, as well as build cabins, housing and more campgrounds.
He would also like to see the Blackstrap Ski Hill re-opened, and become Saskatoon's first choice for winter recreation.
Wilson says there is a lot of support for the idea from surrounding municipalities, as well as the Whitecap Dakota First Nation in the area.
Initially, the province would have to provide some financial support, but the ultimate goal would be to generate enough business to make the park self-sustaining.
wgillis@sp.canwest.com
© The StarPhoenix (Saskatoon) 2008
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