(Sask. Government)

By Nigel Maxwell

Turning point

Hook, line, and sinker: lake goers excited about phase one of Sask. re-opening

Apr 23, 2020 | 5:01 PM

Prince Albert’s Jaimie Samson says she can’t wait to get her family’s boat in the water.

The family of four, who have a cabin and dock spot at Emma Lake, is one of many families across the province that will directly benefit from phase one of the provincial government’s plan to re-open Saskatchewan. Effective May 4, low-risk outdoor recreational activities can be accessed such as fishing and boat launches. On-line provincial park bookings will start the same day, with opening dates scheduled for June 1.

“I have been eager to get to the lake since last season. It’s my happy place,” Samson said upon hearing the news Thursday.

The slight relaxation of measures still requires passengers in boats to be limited to those who reside in the same household. Shoreline anglers must adhere to a strict two-metre distance between individuals.

When asked about safety concerns, Samson said she had none, explaining she plans to conduct the same measures at her cabin as she does at home in the city such as proper handwashing, and disinfecting all hard surfaces and countertops.

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Cheryl Bauer-Hyde, Reeve for the District of Lakeland said with school out, there have been more families out and about in the Christopher Lake and Emma Lake areas. While Bauer-Hyde admits she has concerns about the potential for increased outdoor traffic, she also feels people will know the rules.

“I think the key is going to be the continued social distancing that people are aware of and limiting the number of people in their gatherings,” she said, adding this time of year is typically a busy time of year at the lake for grad parties and weddings.

A number of restaurants and grocery stores remain open in the Town of Christoper Lake, and Bauer-Hyde explained the businesses which operate in the area, rely on the traffic that comes as a result of the long weekend. While the re-opening of retail stores and personalized services such as hair salons doesn’t start until May.19, Bauer-Hyde said she remains optimistic.

“We are coming up to the time of year when our businesses make the money that they need to keep them solvent throughout the quieter times,” she said.

Editor’s note: this article was amended to add passengers in boats must be limited to those who reside in the same household. Shoreline anglers must adhere to a strict two-metre distance between individuals.

nigel.maxwell@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell