LMRP – newly constructed boat launchJennifer Argue, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Original Published 18:15 Jun 01, 2022

By Jennifer Argue, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Park Manager Del Skoropata said that in 2021 the low water level prompted the park’s decision to replace the existing launch. Funds for the project were raised exclusively through boat launch fees and other monies through LMRP.

While Skoropata wouldn’t give the final price tag for the project, he called it “substantial.” He thanked the contractors involved in the project – PGH Enterprises, Quality Plus Construction, Melrone Sand and Gravel and TSL Construction.

The Park reminds people to observe and practice boat safety and boat launch etiquette at all times. Because the launch can be a very busy, and in order not to keep others waiting, Skoropota said, “We have signage when coming into the boat launch. Have your boat prepared to launch. Have your covers taken off. When you back into the water, your boat comes off, and you drive away.”

Skoropata wished everyone “Safe Boating” and said passes for the launch can be purchased at the Park office.

illustration of speed sign confusion Jennifer Argue, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Speed signs stump several spectators

By Jennifer Argue, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Joe Gebhart said he contacted the Ministry of Highways about the posted 90 km/hr signs at either end of the stretch of road and yellow 50 km/hr signs posted shortly after.

LMT contacted the Ministry of Highways for clarification. A spokesperson from the Ministry said the yellow 50 km/hr signs are “advisory” speed limit signs that were put in place to address visibility issues.

“An advisory speed limit is a speed recommendation used when it may not be obvious to the driver that the safe operating speed is less than the posted legal speed limit. Advisory speed limits are often set on sections of highways with tight curves and, in this case – Highway 322 because of the hills with limited visibility. (Typically, this type of advisory on a highway does not require municipal consultation.)

 Drivers are not expected to travel at reduced speeds of 50 km/h over the entire 9 km section from Glen Harbour to Highway 220.”

The Ministry said they are working on changes to the signage to eliminate the confusion. They said revised signage would warn drivers to reduce their speed at specific locations over the 9 km section.

These items reprinted with permission from Last Mountain Times, Nokomis, Saskatchewan