Meewasin has started the process to potentially become a designated Urban National Park in Canada. The first step is engagement with the public, First Nations and Metis communities in the Saskatoon region to generate ideas and feedback for enhancements. The plan is for Meewasin and Parks Canada’s National Urban Park program to conserve nature, connect people and communities with nature through accessible trails, and programs to advance reconciliation with First Nations and Metis Peoples.

Meewasin has created a website for individuals to find information about this project which includes an added survey for the public to provide ideas and feedback for enhancements. Additionally, the website lists events they are hosting such as the Downtown Sidewalk Sale, the Broadway Street Fair and an Open House they are hosting in September. A number of First Nations and Metis community events such as Treaty Days and Back to Batoche are all listed on the website, offering many online and in-person touch points to provide feedback.

Meewasin’s Interim CEO Mike Velonas says there are two key reasons why this designation is great for Meewasin. “National Urban Parks in Canada draw a lot of attention and visitors from across the country and abroad, and to bring that kind of spotlight to our region is a great opportunity. Secondly, through the National Urban Park Program, we expect there to be investments through the federal government to enhance what Meewasin has been doing so well since 1979.”

The boundaries stretching along the South Saskatchewan River within the Meewasin Valley includes popular trails and natural spaces and the proposed enhancements will bring more to the region with improvements to public access, conservation and developing programs while also promoting reconciliation. The park aims to support health and wellness and foster community while encouraging regional economic growth.

Visit https://urbanparksask.ca/ to learn how to get involved.