Minnedosa Tribune
GO CANADA
DARRELL NESBITT/MINNEDOSA TRIBUNE
While festival goers are becoming younger, it holds well for the future of Rockin’ the Fields of Minnedosa, which featured an All-Canadian lineup including Bif Naked on two stages over the dates of Aug. 1-3. Classic rockers filled the site on Sunday with Lee Aaron, Streetheart, and Honeymoon Suite, entertaining prior to weekend closers, Loverboy. Proceeds from 50/50 draws were earmarked to help build a better kitchen where bands, crew, and behind-the-scenes heroes refuel.
Algae blooms cause problems on Lake Minnedosa
A slow, sticky film of blue-green algae reappeared on Lake Minnedosa this summer, prompting fresh beach advisories, temporary closures, and a wave of local concern. What caused the bloom – and what can residents expect in the weeks and years ahead?
On a sweltering afternoon, Minnedosa Beach transformed into an eerie scene. Gone were the clear waters and playful splashes; instead, a layer of murky green scum floated across the surface. The lake’s usual vibrancy was dulled by a thick, slimy film – a jarring contrast to the sunlit sand just steps away. Beachgoers exchanged disappointed glances, their anticipation
for a cool swim replaced by caution.
On July 28, the province posted advisory signs, warning residents to avoid contact with the water – including for pets and livestock.
For the first time since its 2019 opening, the Splish Splash Water Park shut down. Co-owner Connor Champagne closed operations as winds pushed algae toward the inflatables. “We’re waiting for the wa-
ter to get better,” he said. By Saturday morning, the park reopened after tests showed no toxins and the blooms had faded.
So why did it happen? This year’s bloom came as the result of a stubborn combination of dry weather, low water flow, and outdated infrastructure. With limited rainfall, the Little Saskatchewan River’s flow into the lake slowed,
reducing water turnover and allowing algae to take hold.
Barry McPhail of Friends of Lake Minnedosa pointed to the old spillway, which no longer effectively flushes surface water. “The top, where it’s just a skim of algae, is trapped in the lake,” he explained.
DONALD BERGER
Minnedosa Tribune