The Morrissey boat launch, one of the most loved and utilized river access sites along the Elk River, was finally celebrated this past month after four years of challenging work. Led by Tourism Fernie, the project involved developing and confirming partnerships, securing funding agreements, and obtaining approvals for improvements to bring the site to its present state.
Located within Morrissey Provincial Park just south of Fernie, The Morrissey boat launch welcomed a ribbon-cutting event last month after the construction of a formal boat launch, enhancements to access and parking, and installation of signage supporting river safety, stewardship, navigation, site use and fishing etiquette.
“The work that Tourism Fernie has done on this project and the contributions from the funding partners involved is greatly appreciated by the angling community,” said Paul Samycia, owner of Elk River Guiding. “It is so nice to see progress being made on boat launch improvements that we as angling guides had struggled with for many years. The great part about these projects is it benefits all river users and many outdoor recreationists.”
The Morrissey project was a true collaborative effort that could not have happened without the partnership with the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK), BC Parks, and Elk River Alliance, and the funding support from the Province of BC’s Targeted Regional Tourism Development Initiative, Elk Valley Resources (EVR), Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC (FFSBC), Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC), and the RDEK Area A.
“EVR is proud to support collaborative projects that create lasting benefits in the Elk Valley,” said Mike Carrucan, CEO, EVR. “By enhancing sustainable access to the Elk River, the Morrissey boat launch promotes safe recreation while helping to protect the long-term health of the river. We congratulate Tourism Fernie and all the other partners who contributed to this important initiative.”
The Elk River infrastructure improvements initiative started in 2021 thanks to the outcomes from the RDEK Area A Sustainable Tourism Strategy and Tourism Master Plan developed by Tourism Fernie with consultation from area businesses, residents and stakeholders. The river is a vital asset to the region, the residents and the economy. Improvements to existing access sites ensures their long-term sustainability and supports river and riparian stewardship.
“To be able to complete this project after four years of work, and support from so many has been so gratifying and heart-warming. So many key individuals were integral to this success I can’t mention them all, but I’d like to highlight past RDEK Area A Director Mike Sosnowski, current Area A Director Thomas McDonald, Dan Savage and Jamie Davies key project team members, and Lee-Anne Walker of the Elk River Alliance,” commented Jikke Gyorki, Executive Officer, Tourism Fernie Society.
To learn more about project visit: https://tourismfernie.com/news/elk-rivers-morrissey-boat-launch-to-see-improvements
