River levels are rising and flow rates are increasing through Saskatoon and area, which has caused significant flooding at the Fred Heal Canoe Launch so the Meewasin Valley Authority is closing it until Monday, with the possibility of an extension.
The MVA pointed out in its newsletter released on Thursday how dangerous the river can be, citing the the Saskatoon Fire Department’s 2 river rescues in 2 days last weekend.
Manager of Planning and Conservation, Mike Velonas says, “The rapid current flow and height of the river can cause unstable banks and unpredictable flow that make places you are normally familiar with, or appear to be safe, act differently, which can be dangerous.
He suggests being very cautious around the river and don’t leave children or pets unattended.
While the canoe launch is closed Meewasin’s other rural beach sites including Paradise Beach, Poplar Bluffs and Cranberry flats are open from sunrise to sunset.