Alberta's flood-ravaged Kananaskis Country recovering

A large part of the Peter Lougheed Provincial Park west of Calgaryhas reopened after last month's flooding caused major damage.

The state of emergency for the area,whichwas closed June 20 when floodwatersripped throughthe park, has been lifted.

Richard Starke, minister of Tourism, Parks and Recreation, saidKananaskis Country wasseriously impacted by the flooding.

A map, whichis posted below,gives a complete picture of what is open and closedin the area.

Highway 40 into the park has also reopenedto the Kananaskis lakes turnoff, and the province has rebuilt the Evan Thomas bridge.

"As an innovative solution, a temporary prefabricated bridge was installed to allow one-lane access over the Evan Thomas bridge," said the province in a release.

Campgrounds now open, refunds available

Road reconstructionhas been continuous in the area after raging floodwaters forced the closure of the Trans-Canada Highway nearby.

All front-country campgrounds are open, but some trails and facilities still under construction remain closed.

Alberta Parks is offering full refunds for campground reservations that have been cancelled. To receive a refund, call 1-877-537-2757.

Park visitors are being warned that some trails may have been altered and they should exercise caution while hiking.

Visitors are advised to check the government's website for up-to-date information on park services and facilities.

Volunteers can also sign up on the website to help clean up areas of the park still damaged by flooding.