WORK BEGINS ON NIPAWIN DAM SNOWMOBILE TRAIL

Released on August 18, 2003

When the snow flies in Nipawin this winter, snowmobilers will have a safer way to get across the Saskatchewan River. Work has begun on a safety corridor and trail using SaskPower's François-Finlay dam as the thoroughfare. In addition to providing a safer way to cross the river, the trail could increase tourism in the area when it is linked to the Trans-Canada Snowmobile Trail.

"SaskPower and the department of Industry Resources are pleased to be able to work with the Town of Nipawin and a wide range of area stakeholders to develop a safer way for snowmobiles to cross the Saskatchewan River in winter," said Crown Investments Corporation Minister Maynard Sonntag. "Snowmobiling is a popular winter activity and this crossing will extend the regional trail network, bolster tourism and the local economy, and encourage enthusiasts to visit and enjoy a beautiful part of the province."

The Nipawin Snowmobile Safety Advisory Committee – with representatives from the local Twin Lakes Trailblazers Snowmobile Club, Nipawin Economic Development Committee, Town of Nipawin, Nipawin & District Chamber of Commerce, District Snowmobile Dealers, the RCMP, Saskatchewan Industry and Resources and SaskPower – looked at different options for crossing the river before agreeing to use the dam to create the winter crossing.

To manage the project, SaskPower and the Government of Saskatchewan have struck a partnership with the Town of Nipawin. Saskatchewan Industry and Resources is providing the Town of Nipawin with $66,000 to assist in the construction of the crossing. SaskPower will oversee the construction of the trail and the fencing corridor and is contributing approximately $70,000 for security cameras, engineering and administration of the project. The Town of Nipawin will be the legal entity, which will receive the provincial government funds and manage the money raised by the snowmobile club and area organizations to help pay for the project. Total project costs are estimated at $200,000.

"This investment in our community will create a safe crossing for snowmobilers and enhance tourism," said Sherry Michalyca, Economic Development Officer for the Town of Nipawin. "In addition, it will provide economic benefits to the Town of Nipawin and surrounding communities."

When the dam crossing is opened, the sections of trail on either side will become part of the Trans-Canada Snowmobile Trail. A 20 km/h speed limit will be posted to ensure the safety of snowmobilers, as well as SaskPower employees who must access the area to perform regular maintenance.

Work on the Nipawin Dam snowmobile trail is scheduled to be completed in late October 2003. Nordic Industries of Saskatoon was awarded the tendered contract for the nearly two kilometres of fencing.

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For More Information, Contact:

Larry Christie SaskPower Regina Phone: (306)566-3167