REGINA – There’s still time left to squeeze in a safe and fun summer vacation. Tourism Saskatchewan is letting people know that while there are still wildfires burning in some northern areas, many other destinations are open to tourists, campers and nature enthusiasts.
“We understand that people who have made travel plans to northern Saskatchewan may be apprehensive,” said Mary Taylor-Ash, Tourism Saskatchewan CEO.
“Safety has been the number one issue, but naturally we empathize with operators who have seen a decline in visitation this summer.”
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Excluding Prince Albert, there are around 450 tourism businesses and events in northern Saskatchewan, according to the crown corporation’s database. These businesses, some of which are seasonal, employ 2,700 people.
The visitor experience manager at Prince Albert National Park, Carla Flaman, says all of their campgrounds, shops, restaurants and accommodations are open for business.
For some businesses, smoke created by the blazes was an issue for several days, according to Jonathon Potts, Tourism Saskatchewan’s executive director of marketing and communications.
Candle Lake, for example, was one area that was never at risk from the wildifres but did experience periods of heavy smoke. On Wednesday, Candle Lake Golf Resort general manager Rick Rumberger offered assurances that conditions are perfect for golfers.
Lac La Ronge Provincial Park is now open, with the exception of Nemeiben Lake and Wadin Bay campgrounds.
Open fires are now permitted in all provincial parks and recreation sites within supplied fire pits and barbeques only.
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As of Wednesday morning, the number of wildfires burning in the province is down to 88.
Tourism Saskatchewan still advises vacationers to take appropriate precautions to ensure their safety. Travel counsellors can provide up-to-date information toll-free at 1-877-237-2273.
For more information check the Saskatchewan Ministry of Environment’s wildfire management page or call 1-800-567-4224. If travellers want reassurance, they are encouraged to call their destination or operator directly.
Tourism is a $2.12-billion industry in the province, according to the crown corporation.
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