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Crossroads This week
TRUE HONOUR
DARRELL NESBITT/CROSSROADS THIS WEEK
Comparing a horse to a computer, the saying “the more a person uses it, the more is learned” was shared by trusted clinician Selena J. O’Hanlon-Fox at the Shoal Lake Fairgrounds on Friday, June 20. Riders involved with Pegusus Equestrian had the opportunity of a lifetime to learn various aspects of Dressage, Show Jumping, and Cross Country from O’Hanlon-Fox, a Canadian Olympic Equestrian – Eventing competitor in Beijing in 2008.
Group challenges Clear Lake boat ban
RACHEAL FLINTOFT
Crossroads This Week
A coalition comprised of community groups and local businesses has taken a significant step to oppose the federal government’s decision to restrict watercraft on Clear Lake. Known as Fairness for Clear Lake, the coalition has filed
a legal application for judicial review of Parks Canada’s recent decision to maintain a boat ban for another year, citing concerns over community consultation, transparency, and economic impacts.
In 2024, Parks Canada detected zebra mussels in Clear Lake and responded with a temporary ban on motorized boats, later expand-
ing it to all watercraft for the summer season. After consulting with scientists and Indigenous advisors, officials announced plans to lift restrictions in 2025 under a “one boat, one lake” policy. However, unexpectedly in May 2025, Parks Canada reversed its stance, extending the ban without clear explanation – an action that local stake-
holders say disregards scientific evidence and community input.
Fairness for Clear Lake is a coalition of longstanding community organizations including the Wasagaming Chamber of Commerce, the Clear Lake Cottage Owners’ Association, the Clear Lake Cabin Owners’ Association, and the Clear Lake Country Desti-
nation Enrichment Organization. They emphasize that responsible boating access has been vital to the community’s identity and economic well-being, and that recent decisions – like extending the ban – are seen as arbitrary and detrimental.