Although wildfires continue to burn in parts of northern Saskatchewan, conditions are safe to travel to and enjoy tourism businesses and attractions throughout many parts of the region. Tourism Saskatchewan has been monitoring the situation and maintaining regular contact with Prince Albert National Park, members of the Waskesiu & Area Wilderness Region and industry partners and businesses in other northern areas in order to provide up-to-date, accurate information to travellers through its toll-free line and on its social media channels.
“Our thoughts are with the families who were displaced and had property threatened or destroyed, and we thank the professionals and volunteers who courageously fought the fires,” Minister Responsible for Tourism Saskatchewan Jeremy Harrison said. “Many tourism operators in the north and elsewhere in the province continue to be open for business, and we encourage residents and visitors to explore and enjoy our province this summer.”
“The situation in northern Saskatchewan has been a deep concern for us,” Tourism Saskatchewan CEO Mary Taylor-Ash said. “Safety has been the number one issue, but naturally we empathize with operators who have seen a decline in visitation this summer. We understand that people who have made travel plans to northern Saskatchewan may be apprehensive. It is critical to ensure that they have the details to make informed decisions and know that the situation is returning to normal in many areas.”
“Prince Albert National Park (PANP) is seeing blue skies and sunny days, and recent showers have reduced the wildfire risk,” Visitor Experience Manager Carla Flaman said. “All campgrounds in the park are open and the ban on wood fires has been lifted. The golf course, shops, restaurants and accommodations are all open for business. We urge people to continue with their vacation plans and travel to PANP for a great Canadian camping experience.”
“Despite heavy smoke for three days, there were no major fire hazards in the vicinity of Candle Lake,” General Manager of Candle Lake Golf Resort Rick Rumberger said. “We have had ample rain and great weather, and golfers and vacationers are enjoying remarkable outdoor summer experiences here. It is important to spread the word that conditions are safe and that we are eager to welcome travellers.”
Through its Visitor Services Centre and social media channels, Tourism Saskatchewan has been sharing information with consumers. “We have been taking full advantage of social media channels to keep travellers informed,” Taylor-Ash said.
Tourism Saskatchewan’s travel counsellors can be reached toll-free by calling 1-877-237-2273 or via live chat at TourismSaskatchewan.com. Travellers heading north are advised to check highway conditions and take appropriate precautions to ensure safety. For additional reassurance, call ahead to your intended destination.
For up-to-date reports on the wildfires, air quality and areas where fire bans remain in place, check the Ministry of Environment wildlife management page at environment.gov.sk.ca/fire or call the Client Service Office at 1-800-567-4224.
