Little Red River Park Reopening Tuesday, June 30 — Public Urged to Use Caution Near River

The City of Prince Albert advises residents that Little Red River Park is scheduled to reopen on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, following a temporary closure due to elevated water levels on the North Saskatchewan River. The Knotty Pine Bistro will also resume normal operations on June 30.

The river has crested at 4.1 metres with flows of approximately 1,280 m³/s. Current projections indicate water levels will begin to subside over the next 48 hours. While the park will reopen, hazards associated with the recent high-water event may still exist throughout the area, and all park users are urged to exercise caution.

"While we are pleased to reopen Little Red River Park to the public, river conditions still warrant care and attention," said Tim Yeaman, Parks and Open Spaces Manager. "We strongly encourage all visitors to stay well back from the river's edge, avoid entering the water, and be aware that hazards from the recent high-water event may still be present."

Current hazards include:

• Deceptive and Strong Currents: The force of moving water is extremely powerful and can quickly knock a person off their feet, pull them downstream, and make returning to shore difficult or impossible.
• Hidden Hazards: High water can conceal submerged logs, sharp rocks, deep drop-offs, and floating debris that may remain even as levels drop.
• Steep and Unstable Banks: Riverbanks may be slippery, eroded, or unstable. Standing too close to the edge may result in slips, falls, or bank collapse into fast-moving water.
• Cold Water Shock: River water remains extremely cold. Sudden immersion can cause involuntary gasping, hyperventilation, and rapid loss of motor control.
• Foot and Limb Entrapment: Fast-moving water can force a person underwater if a foot or leg becomes trapped between submerged rocks, branches, or debris, making self-rescue extremely difficult.

Visitors are reminded to supervise children closely, keep pets under control near the river, remain on designated trails where possible, and avoid all unnecessary contact with the water.

Officials will continue monitoring river conditions and provide updates as needed. For current park information and safety updates, residents are encouraged to follow the City of Prince Albert's official communication channels.

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For more information, contact:
Timothy Yeaman
Parks and Open Spaces Manager
Parks, Recreation & Culture Department
306-953-4802