Beaches, launches open

Photo: Contributed

The Water Street boat launch is reopening for the long weekend.

The City of Kelowna has opened more beaches and boat launches in time for the Canada Day long weekend.

While lake levels remain more than 55 centimetres above full pool, several beaches along Okanagan Lake will be open Saturday.

These include:

• City Park
• Waterfront Park
• Boyce-Gyro Beach Park
• Cedar Creek Park
• Sarsons Beach Park
• Paul's Tomb and Lochview Trail

The tunnel under the William R. Bennett Bridge, linking City Park and Mushroom Beach, will also reopen Saturday, however, the pedestrian bridge at Lake Avenue remains closed.

With no power at City Park, both the tunnel and park will close at dusk until further notice.

Beach goers may encounter wood debris along shorelines as clean-up activities continue.

Large pieces of debris should be left in place, as it protects against erosion. Swimmers should watch for debris.

Water quality tests have been taking place since the beginning of June, and, to date, water quality is good at all test locations.

Three boat launches have also opened. These include:

• Cook Road
• Cedar Creek Park
• Water Street

While boat launches have opened to the public, the city is encouraging boaters to remain wake-free as much as possible using canoes, kayaks or stand-up paddle boards.

Those choosing to use motorized boats are urged to be respectful of lakefront areas still in flood danger.

Slow down, and stay away from the shore so wakes do not cause further erosion or flooding.

Guidelines are available at the EOC website.