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Boat launches close as Red Deer River levels rise, Waskasoo Creek levels dropping

Apr 24, 2018 | 10:54 AM

Officials with The City of Red Deer say rising water levels on the Red Deer Rivers have forced the closure of four boat launches. 

The boat launches that are now closed are located at Kiwanis Picnic Park, Great West Adventure Park, McKenzie Trails and Waskasoo Crescent.

Water levels on Waskasoo Creek have dropped, officials note, but the Red Deer River rose by half a metre over the past twenty-four hours, leading to these additonal closures within the city.

Officials say water levels have lowered in Waskasoo Creek, but note that Barrett Park remains closed, extending from Ross Street to Kinex Arena, as does Rotary Park, including the playground and skate park.

Waskasoo Park has some localized flooding, and 43 Street from 48 Avenue to 49 Avenue remains closed.

Bookings and special events will not be allowed at Rotary Park or Barrett Park until May 11 to allow time for cleanup and for the water to drain. Existing events will be moved or cancelled and organizers have been notified. 

Residents are urged to use extreme caution around any body of water, as water levels can change quickly during spring melt and it is not safe for people or pets to enter the water at this time.

City crews will continue to monitor the situation and will provide updates as more information becomes available. 

 

(Troy Gillard – The City of Red Deer)