Clear Lake Group Drops Review Challenge Against Parks Canada
Clear Lake Group has decided to withdraw its judicial review of Parks Canada, affecting boating regulations at Riding Mountain National Park. This decision comes as a result of a court delay that postponed their hearing from January 28 to May 21, 2025.
Reasons for Withdrawal from Judicial Review
The group, Fairness for Clear Lake, cited several factors for their decision. A significant reason was the realization that a judge was likely to decline hearing their case due to its timing. Trevor Boquist, the group’s spokesperson, explained that by the time they presented their case, a decision regarding 2026 boating would likely have already been made.
Court Delays and Implications
- The hearing was initially set for January 28, 2025.
- It was postponed to May 21, 2025.
- The group faced potentially costly ongoing legal proceedings.
Parks Canada announced plans to release a decision concerning boating on Clear Lake before the end of the month. The agency did not respond to inquiries about the review before the deadline.
Boating Regulations History
Parks Canada implemented a “one boat, one lake” policy in 2023 due to invasive zebra mussels. The situation escalated as they banned nearly all boats in 2024, leaving only the Martese tour boat operating. By 2025, this tour boat was also banned.
Community Response and Advocacy Efforts
Formed in the summer of 2022, Fairness for Clear Lake includes community members and businesses advocating against the regulations. The group initiated a judicial review and employed a public relations firm to push for policy changes. Although their legal challenge did not culminate in a hearing, Boquist believes they achieved many objectives.
- Highlighted accountability and transparency issues within Parks Canada.
- Resulted in the appointment of new park superintendent Tom Sheldon.
The group aims to advocate for the reinstatement of the “one boat, one lake” policy for 2026. Their efforts include outreach to federal and provincial officials. They are also engaging with Premier Wab Kinew, who previously expressed support for boating on Clear Lake.
Future Goals and Expectations
Fairness for Clear Lake plans to continue lobbying for their boating policy preferences. They are writing letters to Julie Dabrusin, the federal minister responsible for Parks Canada, along with local Manitoba MPs and MLAs.
As the deadline for Parks Canada’s announcement about 2026 approaches, the community remains hopeful for a favorable decision that could allow motorized boats back on Clear Lake.
