Waterton Lakes National Park. (Lethbridge News Now)

By David Opinko

$8.7M announced to rebuild Waterton campground destroyed by fire

May 13, 2021 | 1:13 PM

WATERTON LAKES, AB – Much of Waterton Lakes National Park was devastated by a significant wildfire four years ago and the rebuilding effort continues.

Federal Environment and Climate Change Minister Jonathan Wilkinson announced $8.7-million in funding that will go towards design work and the first phase of reconstruction for the Crandell Mountain Campground.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance and health benefits of spending time outdoors. With the Townsite Campground fully open, there are now more opportunities for Canadians to do so safely in Waterton Lakes National Park. In addition, rebuilding Crandell Mountain Campground with green, accessible infrastructure means an investment in both the park’s visitor services and in protecting its ecological integrity.”

“When we are on the other side of this pandemic, we look forward to welcoming back visitors from all over the world to experience the beauty of Waterton Lakes National Park.”

The campground, along with 30 other assets, were destroyed in the 2017 Kenow Wildfire. It burned roughly 20,000 hectares of land, impacting about 38 per cent of the national park.

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This work will include completing underground utilities and infrastructure, water tank and water treatment building, wildlife corridor reclamation, and rough grading the Crandell Lake Trail parking lot and trailhead.

Construction on phase one is set to start this spring.

Previous rebuilding and improvement efforts in the area include redeveloped campsites with new trees, landscaping, utility infrastructure, resurfaced roads, and new washrooms.