NDP upgrades 184 campsites in Castle parks project phase
Government aiming to attract campers with improvements at Butcher’s Lake
Environment Minister Shannon Phillips on Thursday announced the completion of the first phase of a four-year project to improve Castle parks.
The province is spending $20 million on upgrading recreational facilities in the park.
So far, they’ve refurbished 184 campsites, added four cabins at Beaver Mines Lake and improved the day-use area at Butcher’s Lake.
“Albertans have loved the Castle for generations. We’re protecting this natural wonder while improving accessibility and amenities that enrich the ability for Albertans to enjoy one of the most majestic and biologically diverse areas in the province,” said Phillips.
In January, Premier Rachel Notley expanded the boundaries of Castle Wildland Provincial Park and created a neighbouring new park, the Castle Provincial Park. Together, the area brings 103,000 hectares under provincial protection. The government is hoping to attract campers with their changes at Butcher’s Lake, which now has new firepits, picnic tables and vaulted toilets.
Other changes are ongoing, such as the building of more than a dozen camping sites for RVs.
There’s also an ongoing assessment of the backcountry with the intention of building a set of trails for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, mountain biking and horseback riding.
One group that won’t be welcome are off-highway vehicle drivers, who are restricted from using the park in an attempt to protect the environment.
Earlier in July, Brian Jean, the former Wildrose party leader who is currently running for the leadership of the United Conservative Party, said he would lift the ban if elected premier.
On Thursday, Phillips fired back at Jean, saying her government’s restrictions will help maintain the park for future generations.
“The fact of the matter is, Albertans value the parks — the protected areas — and their ability to camp, hunt and fish, and do that with their children and grandchildren and pass that on for future generations,” said Phillips.
She went on to characterize opposition to the ban as radical.
“It’s too bad that the radical far right in this province doesn’t value that,” said Phillips.
In the 2017 budget, the NDP announced $6 million to pave an 11-kilometre gravel portion of Highway 774 and $9 million for a water line serving the surrounding area, including Castle Mountain Resort.
Albertans value the parks … and their ability to camp, hunt and fish, and do that with their children and grandchildren …