Wildfire-induced financial hardships hit Manitoba lodge operators severely
In Manitoba, wildfires are causing disruption, displacement, and destruction for tourism businesses, according to Don Lamont, the executive director of the Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Association. A total of 45 tourism businesses, members of the association, have been affected by the wildfires, and Lamont believes the fires are having a significant impact on these operators.
Lamont is advocating for disaster relief from the government to help the tourism industry. However, as of now, there is no specific information available regarding disaster relief measures targeted specifically at tourism businesses affected by wildfires in Manitoba in 2025.
The provincial government has declared a state of emergency and is focusing on evacuation, sheltering, and humanitarian aid for displaced residents in communities directly impacted by wildfires, such as Garden Hill and Snow Lake. The government has also mobilized federal assistance to support evacuation efforts and emergency management.
For tourism business owners and stakeholders, it would be advisable to monitor updates from the Manitoba government and provincial business associations such as the Industry Business Association of Manitoba (IBAM) for potential announcements of economic support or relief programs. They should also reach out to provincial emergency management offices and economic development agencies for guidance on available assistance.
Furthermore, watch for federal announcements from Prairies Economic Development Canada or Public Safety Canada concerning business relief in wildfire-affected areas. It's essential to stay informed and proactive in seeking assistance during this challenging time.
Lamont expects the wildfires to have a lasting impact on tourism businesses. Some lodge operators affected by wildfires have insurance, while others do not. The burned forest around the lodges may deter tourists from visiting, and some affected lodge operators have not been able to open their businesses due to the wildfires.
Rachel Lagacé is covering the situation on our website, providing updates as they become available. As the situation unfolds, we will continue to monitor the developments and bring you the latest information regarding disaster relief measures for the tourism industry in Manitoba.
- Despite the appealing landscape for outdoor activities, the ongoing wildfires in Manitoba are causing concerns in the environmental-science and lifestyle sectors, notably affecting tourism businesses like those under the Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Association.
- As the wildfires continue to create disruption, Don Lamont, the executive director of the association, is appealing to the government for disaster relief specifically for affected tourism businesses.
- In addition to seekings aid from the provincial government, it's advisable for tourism business owners and stakeholders to monitor updates from organizations such as the Industry Business Association of Manitoba (IBAM) and provincial emergency management offices for any potential economic support or relief programs.
- Given the potential long-term impact on tourism businesses, it's crucial to stay informed on any developments related to disaster relief measures, including updates from federal agencies like Prairies Economic Development Canada and Public Safety Canada.
