Photo: CSRD

Columbia Shuswap Regional District has partnered with the Shuswap Trail Alliance to open the outdoor skating rink at Sorrento-Blind Bay Community Park.

The partnership will also allow for snow clearing of a popular walking path loop.

Due to current challenges in the insurance market and the ability for contractors to obtain the required snow removal insurance, the CSRD had been unable to find a contractor to provide service at the park.

"We are thrilled we have been able to come up with a solution that will allow people to enjoy walking with their friends and their dogs on a snow-cleared pathway. Weather permitting, this partnership with the Shuswap Trail Alliance will also see residents strapping on their skates and enjoying the fun of the outdoor rink," says Ryan Nitchie, CSRD team leader, community services.

The alliance's work at the park will begin immediately.

Meanwhile, the alliance is bringing back its popular Shuswap Trails Party Feb. 3.

Ticket sales to the sell-out event fund trail development and care.

"Those trail party tickets lay down the foundation for us to support regional partners and projects throughout the year," says board chair Scott McKee.

This year, trails projects were completed at Sorrento/Blind Bay, South Canoe, Eagle Pass, Mara Lookout, and Salmon Arm.

Tickets ($50) will be available exclusively at Skookum Cycle & Ski in Salmon Arm as of Dec. 7.

The recently completed East Canoe Creek Bridge in Salmon Arm, see picture below, is one of the projects funded by the alliance.

Photo: Shuswap Trail Alliance