It will be a great weekend weather wise to head to the Beach — and many spots will be flying a blue flag again this summer.
The group Environmental Defence has announced this year’s 28 locations, picked to fly the Blue Flag for its cleanliness and high safety and environmental standards.
In Ontario — Sauble Beach, Wasaga Beach and Station Beach in Kincardine have all been chosen to fly the Blue Flag again.
The Bayfield Beach and Bluewater Marina have also been picked for a Blue Flag.
The Grand Bend Beach, the Grand Bend Marina and Port Franks Marina have also been recognized — as well Waubuno Beach in Parry Sound.
National Program Manager Brett Tryon says the communities all share a sense of pride to fly the Blue Flag.
Tryon says tourists look for a Blue Flag when they look for a destination, and that turns into more money for the local economy.
There are 33 criteria that each beach will be judged on to quality for a Blue Flag, and communities must apply for one every year.
The categories include water quality, environmental management, safety and services and environmental education.
Tryon admits Wasaga Beach has its challenges because it’s a popular tourist destination — but she notes volunteers have done a great job.
She points out they have done a great job with habitat restoration, which led to the return of the endangered piping plover.
Tryon says all of the beaches along the Lake Huron shoreline have gorgeous dunes and the volunteers are being recognized for their restoration work.
The town of South Bruce Peninsula is also looking to extend the area designated for a Blue Flag, which Tryon says will only help the community.
