In 2025, Parks Canada plans to permit watercraft on Clear Lake under a "one boat, one lake" aquatic invasive species prevention program. This program will be similar to the one implemented in 2023. The public will be invited to provide input on how the 2025 program will be applied. The discovery of hundreds of live juvenile zebra mussels attached to docks and infrastructure near the east end of Clear Lake in the fall of 2024 indicated that zebra mussels are not isolated to the Boat Cove area of the lake, where they had previously been found and where the containment curtain had been installed. This discovery prompted a review of management actions. With input and advice from Indigenous advisors, the Province of Manitoba, and leading scientific and international experts, Parks Canada has determined that eradicating zebra mussels from Clear Lake in Riding Mountain National Park is not feasible. Zebra mussels are a real and significant threat to Clear Lake and downstream waterbodies. These waterbodies flow through five First Nations, are important for agriculture, industry, and recreation, and provide drinking water for tens of thousands of people. Parks Canada is committed to managing the impacts of zebra mussels on the natural environment and to the vitality of the local tourism economy. Parks Canada representatives will be set-up near the skating rink behind the Visitor Centre on February 1 and 2 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Come contribute your input to the 2025 AIS Prevention Program during the Winter Adventure Weekend. The information collected will be used to inform the management of Clear Lake’s aquatic invasive species prevention program for 2025. There is also an opportunity to provide input through an online questionnaire available until February 28, 2025 through this link: https://parks-parcs.simplesurvey.com/f/s/Clear-Lake-Riding-Mountain-2024 For more information and updates about zebra mussels, boating and aquatic invasive species prevention in Riding Mountain National Park visit: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/mb/riding/activ/moto-boat Source Riding Mountain National Park Bulletin

The Manitoba government is encouraging Manitobans to hit the trails this winter and once again offering free park entry for the entire month of February, Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes announced today. “Manitoba’s provincial parks offer an incredible variety of trails and activities for Manitobans of all ages,” said Moyes. “I am pleased to announce we are waiving the entry fee to all provincial parks for the month of February to make it more affordable for Manitoba families to get outdoors and enjoy all our beautiful provincial parks have to offer.” From groomed paths for cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, fat biking, snowshoeing and hiking, to exciting spaces like outdoor skating rinks, hockey arenas and toboggan hills, there’s something for everyone, the minister noted. Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park provides free ice-fishing shelters on Lake Winnipeg or Manitobans can head to ski slopes in Asessippi or Whiteshell provincial parks, added the minister. In addition to free park entry, Manitoba Winter Trails Day will be celebrated for the first time on Saturday, Feb. 8. The day will occur annually on the second Saturday in February to showcase the province’s amazing winter trails and activities, celebrate the dedicated partners who create and maintain trails, and inspire Manitobans to embrace the season by enjoying outdoor adventures with family and friends, said Moyes. Manitobans can join park interpreters on Feb. 8 for guided trail adventures in these provincial parks: Birds Hill - embark on a snowshoe trek along the Nimowin Trail to search for animal tracks and signs of wildlife, and learn how creatures thrive during winter. Spruce Woods - take a guided hike on the Epinette Trail to discover the park's unique landscape and its intriguing connection to the spruce forest. Details and registration information for upcoming programs can be found along with more information on winter activities in provincial parks at www.manitobaparks.com. Manitobans are also encouraged to check this website for trail conditions before visiting parks. Trail users are reminded to only use trails for designated activities and never walk on groomed ski tracks, keep dogs on leash and practice the principles of Leave No Trace by removing everything that is brought in. Vehicle permits are not required in provincial parks in February, but Snopasses are still required for snowmobiles using designated trails.

Brandon, Manitoba, is set to welcome a new dining and shopping experience with the upcoming opening of Multi Cook, a Ukrainian-based franchise renowned for its European culinary delights and specialty food items. The announcement has created a buzz in the community, as food enthusiasts eagerly anticipate a taste of authentic Ukrainian and Eastern European flavors. Multi Cook  is celebrated for its wide range of ready-to-cook meals, homemade recipes, and premium ingredients. The franchise caters to those who appreciate traditional European cuisine while valuing convenience. Visitors to the new location can expect popular dishes like borscht, pierogi, and cabbage rolls, as well as gourmet options inspired by diverse culinary traditions. Delivery service will be available. The Brandon location (155-18th St. Unit B) will mark the franchise’s first venture into western Manitoba, aiming to serve both the local Ukrainian community and adventurous food lovers eager to explore new flavors. This opening reflects the growing demand for authentic and diverse culinary experiences in the region. Multi Cook is set to open its doors shortly, and excitement is already building. As residents of Brandon prepare to enjoy a slice of Ukrainian tradition, this addition is sure to enhance the city's cultural and culinary landscape. You can follow them on Facebook here.

The Manitoba government is contributing $1 million to support renovations and upgrades to the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium (WMCA) in Brandon, ensuring its long-term viability and success, Municipal and Northern Relations Minister Glen Simard announced today. “This facility is a hub for the arts and a vital part of the cultural fabric of Brandon and beyond,” said Simard. “This funding goes a long way to ensuring financial stability for the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium and also clears some space in the City of Brandon’s municipal budget. We are committed to ensuring that Brandon and the WMCA remain an important cultural hub for Westman.” The Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium is Westman’s premier performing arts venue, located on the grounds of Brandon University. Established in 1968, the WMCA is a not-for-profit community asset for the city of Brandon and surrounding area. The auditorium hosts a variety of performances including professional ballet, a symphony orchestra, concerts, community and high school theatrical productions as well as numerous cultural events and festivals. “On behalf of Brandon city council, I am very appreciative of the $1 million investment from the Manitoba government to the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium," said Mayor Jeff Fawcett, City of Brandon. "As the premier performing arts center in the Westman region, the WMCA is a cornerstone of our community. This funding will positively influence our 2025 budget discussions, resulting in a one percent savings, which will ease the financial burden on Brandon taxpayers while ensuring the WMCA receives the necessary support. We are immensely thankful for the province's assistance.” “We are pleased and profoundly grateful,” said Kaitlyn Mitchell, general manager, WMCA. “This substantial funding is pivotal in ensuring the longevity and safety of the WMCA. The WMCA has long stood as a pillar of our community, nurturing creativity, enriching our cultural heritage and providing a venue for numerous performances and events. With this investment, we extend our heartfelt thanks to the Manitoba government for reaffirming our collective commitment to preserving and advancing this essential institution for future generations." This one-time funding will allow the WMCA to complete necessary critical repairs to keep the auditorium safe and functional for audiences including updates to meet current building codes, egress upgrades for fire compliance, plumbing upgrades and repairs to the foundation and roofing system, the minister noted.

The Westman Multicultural Festival, a hallmark of cultural celebration, is set to light up Brandon, Manitoba, once again. Taking place February 6 - 8, 2025, the festival is a highly anticipated event that showcases the incredible diversity and heritage of communities in the Westman region. This annual celebration invites locals and visitors alike to immerse themselves in a rich tapestry of traditions, music, dance, and cuisine from around the globe. The festival is anchored by its vibrant pavilions, each representing a different culture or country. These pavilions, spread across various venues in Brandon, transform the city into a global village. Attendees can travel from one cultural destination to another in the same evening, experiencing the unique charm of each culture. From the hearty rhythms of Latin America to the intricate art and traditions of Asia, every pavilion offers a distinctive cultural journey. Visitors can enjoy: Live Performances: Talented artists showcase traditional and contemporary music, dance, and theatrical performances unique to their culture. Culinary Delights: Sample authentic dishes that capture the flavors and essence of the culture being celebrated. Cultural Displays: Learn about history, art, and customs through engaging exhibits and artifacts. The Westman Multicultural Festival goes beyond food and entertainment; it’s a powerful statement of unity and celebration. It’s an opportunity to break down cultural barriers and build friendships through shared experiences. With each dance, each bite of food, and each heartfelt exchange, the festival strengthens the bonds within Brandon’s multicultural community. What You Need to Know Dates: February 6 - 8, 2025 Locations: Multiple pavilions are located throughout Brandon. For dates/times please visit the Westman Multicultural Web Site here. HAMI: East End Community Centre 405 Park Street The Nigeria pavilion : ANAVETS hall at 31 14th St Jamaica pavilion: Fire Hall Event Venue at 637 Princess Ave. Ukraine pavilion: National Ukrainian Hall on 1133 Stickney Ave El Salvador pavilion: North End Community Centre at 1313 Stickney Ave. The Philippines pavilion: Knox United Church (451 18th St.), the Colombia pavilion: Royal Canadian Legion Hall (560 13th St. East), and the Mauritius pavilion: Westman Immigrant Services Multicultural Hall (403 13th St.) The India pavilion: Salon A at the Victoria Inn Scottish pavilion: Imperial Ballroom of the Victoria Inn The Palestine pavilion: Backyard on Aberdeen (1624 13th St.). Tickets: Admission to pavilions is free, though some may offer items for purchase such as food, drinks, or souvenirs. Whether you are a seasoned attendee or a first-time visitor, the Westman Multicultural Festival promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a greater appreciation of the world’s cultures. Mark your calendar and prepare for an enchanting journey of discovery in Brandon. Come with curiosity, leave with cherished memories!