To: The RM of Alexander, the Winnipeg River Planning District and the Province of Manitoba

We, the undersigned, call on local and provincial decision-makers to maintain the moratorium on new development along the Bird River. 

The Bird River is a fragile and irreplaceable natural waterway.  Multiple studies - beginning with the 1977 Bird River Sector Plan by Westland Planning Consultants and reaffirmed in the 2008 BRCO Survey Results by Lombard North Group - concluded that the river had already exceeded its safe carrying capacity.  These studies highlighted overcrowding, boating conflicts and environmental pressures that would only worsen with further development.  Despite this, By-Law No. 83/25 from the Winnipeg River Development Planning District is proposing to lift the moratorium. 

If studies decades apart both concluded the Bird River was already beyond its limits, we must ask: what has changed?  The answer is nothing - except that conditions have only worsened.

Lifting the moratorium now would have devastating consequences

Environmental Harm
Shoreline development risks accelerating habitat loss, loss of at-risk animal, bird and fish species, shoreline erosion and water quality decline. These impacts will extend beyond the Bird River into Lac du Bonnet and the Winnipeg River system.

Water Safety
The Bird River already faces dangerous congestion; its narrow, shallow channels average a depth of only 15 feet, leaving little room for safe navigation when crowded with motorboats, swimmers, kayakers and other users, creating unsafe conditions for all.  Allowing more docks and launches create pinch points on an already narrow body of water that can endanger swimmers and increase traffic, accidents and conflicts on the water.  Modern cottages often support multiple vessels such as pontoon boats, speedboats, and personal watercraft, multiplying the stress on the river and its banks.

The claim made by the creators of the Winnipeg River Development Plan that rising boat numbers prove the moratorium has “failed” is deeply flawed - in reality, the moratorium has been effective in preventing even greater overcrowding.  Further, the proposed Vessel Operation Restriction Regulation (VORR) will not substantially limit boat traffic as the Planning District claims; it only restricts wake surfing and does nothing to reduce the overall number of vessels on the river.

Infrastructure and Resource Strain
Roads, highways, the 315 bridge and emergency services are already under pressure.  More development would add costs and further compromise safety and emergency response times.

Loss of Natural Character
The Bird River is treasured for its natural beauty, recreation, and ecological importance. Short-term development gains will permanently diminish its appeal for residents and visitors alike, and damage or eliminate the natural habitat of dozens of species of fish and wildlife.

Our Call to Action
The moratorium has served as a critical safeguard for decades, ensuring that the Bird River remains a safe, healthy, and sustainable place.  Lifting it now would be short-sighted and contrary to the best interests of the community and future generations. 

The Bird River is a precious and finite resource: ecologically, recreationally, and culturally. Preserving its integrity is in the best interests of both the local community and all Manitobans.

We urge the RM of Alexander, the Winnipeg River Planning District, and the Government of Manitoba to reject the current By-Law No. 83/25 to maintain the Bird River development moratorium.