Concerns are mounting over the future of the popular River Flats area near Rocky Mountain House amid the prospect of restricted public access, prompting widespread public outcry and calls for a solution.

The privately owned land along the North Saskatchewan River has long been used by locals for activities like fishing, hiking and canoeing — with dozens enjoying the area on warm days.

However, in recent weeks, unfettered access to the site has been called into question, reportedly in response to complaints about squatting and garbage accumulation on the site.

Since then, residents have been fielding concerns to the landowner, TransAlta, as well as Clearwater County and the Clearwater County Taxpayers’ Association (CCTA).

“I received a phone call from a concerned resident that the area was being closed, and he was very concerned,” said Marianne Cole, CCTA president.

The potential of limited vehicle access has triggered a storm of social media activity and grassroots organizing, including a Sept. 21 rally, with attendees expressing concern that a treasured recreational area is being lost.

The impromptu rally, attended by around 70 people, was organized near the riverfront by a group of concerned citizens, including Cynthia McCaughley.

“It’s really imperative that the people of Rocky who use this put the pressure on our elected politicians to make sure that this is something that’s pursued, and that things don’t break down or get lost in translation,” says McCaughley.

Cynthia McCaughley speaking about the goals of a Sept. 21 rally regarding the River Flats area

 

McCaugley adds, for now access to the River Flats is open to the public, but believes it could be closed once all campers are removed.

Ultimately, McCaughley hopes stakeholders can come to a solution where the area can be enjoyed rather than being shut down.

During the Sept. 23 regular council meeting, Clearwater County members indicated they were well aware of the growing controversy.

In a statement, a Clearwater County spokesperson said it received a public complaint earlier in the year regarding an unsightly property and squatting on private lands adjacent the North Saskatchewan River.

In accordance to the county’s former 2001 Land Use Bylaw (LUB), a compliance process was undertaken which included a letter to the landowner, a site inspection, and a follow up letter.

The statement added, the complaint file was handled by county staff, and the matter was considered closed over the summer.

Christine Heggart, Clearwater County’s director of planning and emergency services, added that any changes to the property are completely at the owner’s discretion.

Clearwater County Councillor Neil Ratcliffe, who attended the Sept. 21 rally, says a win-win solution is a distinct possibility.

“I think there is a solution that just needs a little work to restore access and potentially even improve facilities at that site,” said Ratcliffe, where councillors voted to pursue a collaborative solution.

The motion, which was amended during debate, calls for Clearwater County and the Town of Rocky Mountain House to work with the landowner, the provincial government, and other partners to explore ways of maintaining public access while addressing concerns around unauthorized camping and site cleanliness.

Council also discussed long-term improvements such as garbage bins, signage, and even outhouses to support public use, but Reeve Michelle Swanson emphasized these can’t be implemented without landowner and provincial cooperation.

In her letter, Cole suggested putting up ‘Day Use Only’, or ‘No Overnight Camping’ signs, as well as increased patrols as possible solutions.

Marianne Cole, CCTA president speaking to what she hopes to see done at the River Flats area 

TransAlta addressed citizens’ concerns in an emailed statement to 94.5 Rewind Radio:

At TransAlta, we are committed to the safety of our hydro operations and neighboring communities. Our team is working closely with local authorities to ensure public safety and protect the environment in the River Flats area.

Additionally, a request from Clearwater County will be made to involve the Alberta government, including Minister of Forestry and Parks Todd Loewen, as well as MLA Jason Nixon.