As part of Alberta’s Recovery Plan, more than $1 million will enhance trails and infrastructure at Shunda (Fish) Lake, Big Horn Dam, Preachers Point, and the rail trail from Rocky Mountain House to Nordegg. This investment will support up to 30 jobs during design and construction, and provide Albertans with upgraded trails across David Thompson Country, as they get out to explore these special areas.
“Outdoor recreation and camping have never been more popular in Alberta, and I’m pleased to see folks taking in the great scenery our province has to offer. As part of Alberta’s Recovery Plan to create jobs and stimulate the economy, this important investment in trail and infrastructure improvements will also support more enjoyable and safe outdoor recreation experiences for Albertans.”
"Recreational infrastructure in David Thompson Country is an invaluable asset that provides extraordinary experiences and economic opportunities for visitors and residents. This investment supports the tireless work of local volunteers to improve trails and bolsters ongoing efforts by the county and our partners to enhance trail infrastructure throughout the region."
“The Town of Rocky Mountain House welcomes the province’s investment in our region. We look forward to the increased tourism opportunities this initiative will promote. Thank you to the Government of Alberta for recognizing the need for additional infrastructure in David Thompson Country. This will greatly enhance visitor experience.”
“David Thompson Country has proven to be a very popular tourism destination. This year is somewhat extraordinary; however, it is a good indicator of future demand. Therefore, it is very necessary to make improvements to the high use areas to create better camping opportunities and safer trails for all users. This announcement is a great start for needed upgrades, and investing in public land is a wise approach for ensuring access and responsible use.”
Quick facts about the projects
- $660,000 for the Clearwater Rail Trail Project
- Development and enhancement of the rail trail from Rocky Mountain House to Nordegg
- $205,000 towards the Bighorn Dam Safety Enhancement
- Installation of ten outhouses from Bighorn Dam to the Cline River, and safety signage
- $200,000 for Shunda (Fish) Lake by Nordegg
- Upgrades to non-motorized trails around the lake
- $70,000 for Preachers Point Site Enhancement
- Safety enhancements for campers along the river, including road?trail maintenance, and creation of a ring road system
Funding is being provided from the 2020 provincial capital budget, which includes more than $43 million for provincial parks and public land infrastructure.
Many provincial parks and public lands are seeing an all-time high number of visitors this summer. On July 30, Minister Nixon signed a ministerial order to support increased education, monitoring and enforcement from conservation officers and partners and to ensure responsible and safe behaviour on public and park land in the eastern slopes. As part of the order, additional garbage bins were installed at strategic locations in the eastern slopes for long weekends along with more portable washrooms along the Highway 11 corridor. There has been improved behaviour in some areas, as the province continues to educate the public about responsible and respectful camping and recreation.
Alberta’s Recovery Plan is a bold, ambitious long-term strategy to build, diversify, and create tens of thousands of jobs now. By building schools, roads and other core infrastructure we are benefitting our communities. By diversifying our economy and attracting investment with Canada’s most competitive tax environment, we are putting Alberta on a path for a generation of growth. Alberta came together to save lives by flattening the curve and now we must do the same to save livelihoods, grow and thrive.
