The Westward Ho Campers Association has given Mountain View County councillors an update on activities and plans for the popular campground, which is owned by the municipality.
During the recent policies and priorities committee meeting, association president Pat Strey and vice-president Rob Campbell appeared as a delegation before the committee, which is made up of county councillors.
Located along the Little Red Deer River east of Sundre, the campground is operated by the association on behalf of Mountain View County.
The evacuation of the campground due to flooding in June 2013 proceeded without incident and as outlined in evacuation plans, the committee heard.
In 2013 total revenue was $474,000 last season, compared with the budgeted amount of $443,000. The capital reserve was $135,000.
In 2014 the estimated revenue is $452,000, estimated expenses of $442,000, and estimated capital reserve of $125,000.
Capital maintenance in the campground includes expanded water lines in the park, repairs to the Centennial Hall fireplace, south shower house repairs, new shingles on south cookshack, tree planting and tree removal, and upgrades to the north and south bathrooms.
The association has purchased and insured two used pickup trucks, as well as a pressure washer and tank, two Weed Eaters, a lawn mower, air compressor, emergency portable gas water pumps, first aid kids, radios and tools.
There was "excellent feedbackî from local ball teams, with 10 tournaments held in 2013, said Strey.
Deputy reeve Patricia McKean told the delegation that the association is doing a great job.
"I am very impressed with what you guys are doing out there,î said McKean. "It is a huge asset and you guys are doing a remarkable job.î
Campground manager Gord Toews says the facility's flood evacuation plans are regularly updated and reviewed to ensure camper and staff safety.
