April 6, 2020
We all have to admit that the current COVID-19 isolation requirements could seriously affect how we enjoy our lake lots. Everyone in the world has been advised to practice physical distancing to help reduce the spread of the virus. Travelling is not recommended under the assumption that it increases the risk of spreading the virus. Alberta provincial parks have been closed to vehicle traffic because of the inability to maintain the facilities. We have been asked not to go to vacation homes in smaller communities and told that those who are feeling unwell should not go to summer cottage areas, putting unnecessary strain on the rural medical facilities. How all of this applies to the Annual Campers at Fawcett Lake Resort is not clear right now. The Resort is a 2 1/2 hour drive from Edmonton where many of us live. It has also been said that being outdoors, but not in contact with other individuals, is the safest place to be. This can be difficult in a crowded city. The Resort is not a commercial business with frequent and numerous public visitors. It is not a daily short-stay campground where everyone relies on public facilities. Each Annual Camper has their own defined lot and is self-sustaining. Some people are of the opinion that limiting contact with others would be easy to do at the lake as long as everyone remains diligent and respectful. However, a medical emergency always comes with higher risk when it happens at the lake and the Slave Lake ambulance could be well over an hour away, providing it is available. This is something that everyone should always consider before coming to the lake.
At this time, there are no plans to reduce your access to your lakelot at Fawcett Lake Resort, but you can expect that things will likely be different at the lake this season. As with each year, our Seasonal Camping Period will begin May 15. Annual Campers have always been welcome to come to the Resort during the off season, but there are no services available. As always, make sure that everyone in your family (including your children and pets), and any guests, do not enter another lot without permission. Be respectful of everyone’s need to practice physical distancing as they choose. We suggest that people always wait for an invitation before crossing the lot line, every time.
The situation is changing very quickly and all of us will be watching to see how life at the lake will be affected this year. We are planning the summer, and its events and activities, as normal. However, we will certainly be taking steps to see what changes must be made, including closures of community facilities, a possible conversion of the Resort Store to a delivery only service and maybe even a temporary restriction on bringing guests to your lot. In addition, the Campers Association may be forced to consider changes to the numerous events they had planned at the lake this summer. We will also be contacting local businesses to see how their services have been changed in response to new requirements and recommendations.
Before the season begins, there will be an update again with more information.