As you may be aware, on August 8th, 2025 the Aspen Grove beach within Blackstrap Provincial Park was subject to a DO NOT SWIM Advisory due to elevated E.coli bacteria levels in the lake water. As part of the provincial Healthy Beaches program, provincial park staff complete weekly lake water testing for the two public beaches within the park, and the elevated E.coli result was only positive for the Aspen Grove beach. E.coli levels at the Kevin Misfeldt beach at the Kevin Misfeldt campground (south of the Aspen Grove Beach) was deemed within the safe E.coli levels indicated by the Saskatchewan Health Authority.
Retesting of both public beaches in the park was completed early this week, and are happy to report that the advisory was rescinded as of 12:30 p.m. today.
I am attaching some relevant information sheets for your reference:
- Healthy Beaches FAQ
- E.coli fact sheet
The Healthy Beaches Public Map lists all testing results, and is a helpful resource if you are looking for historical testing data and the current conditions for beaches around the province.
There have been many questions about the safety of the water in the entirety of Blackstrap Reservoir. It is important to note that the positive result and concurrent advisory were only issued for the Aspen Grove beach. Further questions about bacteriological monitoring and water safety can be directed to the Saskatchewan Health Authority - Environmental Public Health office at 306-655-4605.
I invite you share this information with the residents of your community as you see necessary.
Allyssa Danchak, BSc. (she/her)
Government of Saskatchewan
Park Manager
Blackstrap Provincial Park/Fort Carlton Provincial Historic Park
Ministry of Parks, Culture & Sport