Saskatchewan’s Wascana Trails closed to public due to coronavirus

People wanting to get outside and enjoy some fresh air during this time of social distancing have one less place to go.

Wascana Valley Nature Recreation site, better known as Wascana Trails, has been shut down to the public due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The trails fall under Saskatchewan’s parks and recreation sites, which were officially closed on Friday.

“We understand many people are eager to get out of the house and spend time outdoors,” said Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Gene Makowsky in a release.

1:29 Mobile birthday parties are gaining popularity in Saskatchewan

• Mobile birthday parties are gaining popularity in Saskatchewan
• Group calls on Saskatchewan government to put a halt on aging out young people in their care
• Over a century later, Spanish flu has similarities to COVID-19 pandemic
• Federal government recommends First Nations suspend spring elections during coronavirus pandemic
• Farmers frustrated with federal decision to move forward with carbon tax increase amid pandemic
• Counselling sessions on hold at Saskatoon sexual assault centre due to COVID-19
• Coronavirus: Families worry kids will fall behind in school due to online challenges

Previous Video

Next Video

“However, our provincial parks are not where people should be congregating right now.

“The health and safety of our visitors and staff is the main priority and we are supporting social distancing by closing these spaces, including visitor reception centres and washroom buildings. We all need to do our part to reduce the spread of COVID-19.”

Wascana Trails representatives are in the process of putting proper signage up to indicate the trails cannot be used until further notice.

Questions about COVID-19? Here are some things you need to know:

Health officials caution against all international travel. Returning travellers across Canada are legally obligated to self-isolate for 14 days, beginning March 26, in case they develop symptoms and to prevent spreading the virus to others. In Saskatchewan, international travellers are already required to self-isolate for 14 days upon their return to the province.

Symptoms can include fever, cough and difficulty breathing — very similar to a cold or flu. Some people can develop a more severe illness. People most at risk of this include older adults and people with severe chronic medical conditions like heart, lung or kidney disease. If you develop symptoms, contact public health authorities.

To prevent the virus from spreading, experts recommend frequent handwashing and coughing into your sleeve. They also recommend minimizing contact with others, staying home as much as possible and maintaining a distance of two metres from other people if you go out.

For full COVID-19 coverage from Global News, click here.