A future of low-impact outdoor recreation is slated for the gravel pit area just south of the Dunes. The County recently approved the first draft of the Wapiti Recreation Area Management Plan which proposes the depleted Wapiti gravel leases be transformed. County of Grande Prairie Reeve Leanne Beaupre explains the land is on the north side of the Wapiti River and would be a place for activities such as cross country skiing or a tenting area.
“Presently there are off-road vehicles in that area and the contemplation is to not have motorized vehicles in that area at all. The contemplation is to have more family orientated activities.”
She adds that the area is part of a Key Wildlife and Biodiversity Zone with many animal and forest species that need minimal disturbances. Along with the restriction of off-road vehicles, the proposed plan has the potential to have prohibition of hunting. With further research, the county is looking at developing a BMX track or an off-leash dog park there.
Before any of the gravel pit is changed over or official plans are made, the plan will be sent for consultation to local First Nations groups and the public. Beaupre says there could be things in the 2018 budget regarding the future of the area.