NEWS RELEASE
NORTHERN DEVELOPMENT, MINES, NATURAL RESOURCES AND FORESTRY
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Kenora – The Ontario government is supporting the Northwestern tourism industry and the local economy by investing over $800,000 to revitalize the Turtle Portage Marine Railway on Lake of the Woods. This important marine railway provides a shortcut for users to move their boats between Whitefish Bay and Sabaskong Bay on Lake of the Woods instead of travelling 145 kilometres by boat around the Aulneau Peninsula.
"Lake of the Woods is a vital part of tourism in the Northwest, attracting cottagers and visitors who come to enjoy the many recreational opportunities the area has to offer," said Greg Rickford, Minister of Northern Development, Mines, Natural Resources and Forestry. "Turtle Portage is an iconic landmark on Lake of the Woods and that’s why our government is proud to ensure that boaters can safely use this overland crossing for many years to come.”
The Turtle Portage Marine Railway will be upgraded to improve its functionality, safety, and reliability, allowing for more recreational boating opportunities on the lake.
Off-site assembly activities are already underway and on-site construction will begin as soon as conditions improve in the Spring. The crossing will be ready for boaters to use by Summer, 2022. Locals and tourists will benefit from continued access to the Turtle Portage Marine Crossing between Whitefish Bay and Sabaskong Bay on Lake of the Woods.
