About Us
Fairness for Clear Lake is a coalition of long-standing community organizations committed to advocating for transparent, inclusive decision-making about the future of the lake and the broader community. Our first priority is advocating for Parks Canada to lift their arbitrary boat ban on Clear Lake for the 2025 season.
Our group includes leaders from the Wasagaming Chamber of Commerce (WCC), the Clear Lake Cottage Owners’ Association (CLCOA), the Clear Lake Cabin Association (CLCA), and the Clear Lake Country Destination Enrichment Organization (CLC).
Historically, Parks Canada engaged with the local community through the Wasagaming Tenants’ Association (WTA), which was recognized in the Park’s Management Plan as the body to be consulted on issues of significance to stakeholders. However – despite a desire for consultation from the community – in recent years, Parks Canada has ceased formally recognizing the WTA and has not established a new framework for community consultation and collaboration. This lack of structure has led to inconsistent engagement and decision-making that leaves out the voices of those most affected.
Fairness for Clear Lake is seeking a renewed, formalized partnership model, similar to frameworks in place in other national parks like Prince Albert and Waterton. We believe Clear Lake deserves the same level of respectful collaboration.
All funds raised through this campaign will be held in trust on behalf of the leadership of the four founding organizations of this campaign: Wasagaming Chamber of Commerce (WCC), the Clear Lake Cottage Owners’ Association (CLCOA), the Clear Lake Cabin Association (CLCA), and the Clear Lake Country Destination Enrichment Organization (CLC). Funds will only be distributed at the direction of these organizations. The reversal of the motorized boat ban is the lightning rod for our fundraising efforts. The funds will only be used for legal action, advocacy, and communications efforts on behalf of these organizations. The funds are held in trust by GoFundMe and Impact Public Affairs.
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Our Mission
We are a coalition of community organizations and local businesses who care deeply about the future of Clear Lake. Our goal is to rebuild trust and foster a respectful, long-term relationship with Parks Canada, rooted in transparency and collaboration. We are also committed to building respectful partnerships with First Nations communities, where invited, and supporting their leadership, and enduring connection to this land.
In 2024, Parks Canada discovered zebra mussels in Clear Lake and promptly announced a temporary ban on motorized boats – and later all watercraft – for the summer, aiming to prevent further spread of this invasive species. Following consultations with scientists and Indigenous advisers, Parks Canada concluded that complete eradication of zebra mussels was not feasible and initially planned to lift the boat ban for the 2025 season and adopt a ‘one boat one lake’ policy.
However, on May 16, 2025, Parks Canada unexpectedly reversed their decision, opting to maintain restrictions on motorized watercraft for another year without clear scientific justification.
This arbitrary policy reversal has had a profound impact on the Clear Lake community, affecting local businesses, cabin owners, and tourists alike. For decades, we have relied on responsible boating access not only for economic livelihoods but also as a cornerstone of our community's identity and Manitoba’s welcoming spirit to visitors.
At Fairness for Clear Lake, we advocate for transparent and inclusive decision-making processes that consider the long-term interests of all stakeholders involved. Join us in safeguarding Clear Lake and promoting fair policies that uphold the values of collaboration and sustainability.
