To the Editor:
I would like to respond to a recent letter to the editor from Sandy Lowndes regarding Greenwater Lake Provincial Park and correct the record on several counts.
In her letter, Ms. Lowndes contends that "parks should be financially available to everyone; not a country club for a few". Saskatchewan camping fees are among the lowest in Canada and our provincial parks have set attendance records three out of the last four years, clearly showing that they are indeed affordable to visitors from inside and outside our province.
Regarding marina privileges at Greenwater, the boat launch continues to be free and is being maintained by park staff. Docking of private boats is considered a non-core service and is provided by a private business on a cost-recovery basis. This approach has resulted in improved and expanded marina docking facilities over the long-term by using private investment.
These are not the only private investments that are flourishing in our parks, as most services are provided by "mom and pop" operators (like restaurants, golf courses, and stores) and we are proud that our busy parks are able to support independent businesses throughout the province.
Ms. Lowndes is also wrong in her statement that the province is selling off provincial parks. Nothing could be further from the truth. Since 2008, our government has invested almost $44 million to improve our parks - a 250 per cent increase from the previous five years - and created the first new provincial park in almost 20 years with Great Blue Heron which opened this past summer. This investment includes more than $2 million in capital projects at Greenwater with plans to add another 68 campsites within the next two years. Our government is continuing to improve our incredible provincial parks.
The Government of Saskatchewan, like the people of Saskatchewan, takes immense pride in our provincial parks. Our ongoing investment allows residents and guests to enjoy them now and in the years to come.
Kevin Doherty, Minister of Parks, Culture and Spor
