This signage will be changed soon at Nut Point Campground. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

multipurpose

Conversion of ski trails at Nut Point concerning for park user

Feb 3, 2021 | 5:05 PM

Loops one and two at the Nut Point Campground will be converted from ski trails to suit more of a multi-purpose use.

“It’s a new initiative that the park would be implementing effective Feb. 15, which is Family Day,” said Lac La Ronge Provincial Park Manager Natasha Merriman. “More and more people are looking for outdoor activities since the implementation of COVID restrictions, and walking trails and skiing are quite popular these days, especially in La Ronge.”

Instead of those two loops being reserved exclusively for skiers, Merriman explained they will be opened up to those who want to walk, snowshoe, fat bike, walk leashed pets and more. She said there are currently no options for those who want to do those activities in the park where there is also lighting during the evening.

During this winter season and in previous years, Merriman said there’s been evidence of people walking on ski trails, most notably at Nut Point.

“We’re kind of looking into ways to alleviate some of that and provide new opportunities for folks,” she said. “We think it is a very good initiative and something new.”

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The redevelopment of the two loops doesn’t sit well with park user Haley Zarazun, who found out about it earlier this week. She said she was surprised by the decision as there was no consultation with herself or other La Ronge Ski Club members.

Zarazun added she supports expanding activities such as snowshoeing and hiking, but doesn’t want it to come at the cost of fewer skiing opportunities.

“I’m hoping there will be a way to reach a collaborative group consensus where the skiers can keep skiing at Nut Point on all of the loops,” she said. “Overall, it’s a good intention the park has to promote outdoor recreation. I just think it would be great to come to a solution that doesn’t hurt the ski trails in this town.”

A meeting will be held Thursday between the ski club and park management. Merriman noted, however, the current plan is to have two loops converted within the next two weeks.

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derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno