June 27, 2019 – The Municipal District of Bonnyville is closing down the Crane Lake East boat launch due to safety concerns.
Reeve Greg Sawchuk says the cement blocks are breaking apart and the rebar is starting to poke out, causing a hazard for boaters. “The east launch got pretty beat up this year with ice and sand. It is on our list of launch improvements that is sitting with Alberta Environment and Parks (AEP).”
Sawchuk says at this time, the M.D. cannot give a reopening date, as it could be a lengthy process to get environmental approvals.
Chris McCord, Director of Parks, Recreation and Culture, is also asking boaters to be cautious when using the Crane Lake West boat launch. “The west side launch has an eroded trench running alongside it towards the water due to the runoff from the extensive rain we have been experiencing. Because of its location to the water, the M.D. has begun the approval application process to repair the problem, but it will take a few weeks before the M.D. receives the go ahead. In the meantime, we are asking people to take the appropriate safety measures while launching their boats.”
McCord says the west boat launch will be repaired as soon as possible.