Delta Beach campground is getting ready to open up for the first time in seven years. Portage Regional Recreation Authority general manager David Sattler says a lottery's being held for camper and RV sites.

"Because it's the first time that the campground is going to be open in about seven seasons, and it's also the first year the PRRA will be maintaining operations of the campground, we thought it was fair to open up all the seasonal sites on a lottery basis, and not first-come-first-serve," explains Sattler. "The lottery will allow interested individuals to apply for a lottery spot."

Sattler says March 9th is when the draw will take place using the Portage Terriers 50/50 machine. 20 people will be randomly selected to receive a site, and based on the order of selection, they'll then choose their preferred location.

He says they discussed the option of making the selection for a single season or not, but knowing it's a new campground and it will take time for all all of it to mature and look the way it once did before the flood, those interested in the first year can keep those spots as long as they like, so long as it remains within the family.

Sattler explains there are 20 seasonal sites with ten on the lakefront, and they're serviced with 30-amp power and water. The rates set for this year are $1,650 for non-lakefront and $1,800 for lakefront sites. If sewer connections are not installed by the time season starts, there will be a $150 reduction in rates for the entire season.

28 sites will remain non-seasonal, 18 of them are not serviced, and ten will have 30-amp and water services.

Feedback has included a lot of questions concerning operations and lot sizes. Sattler notes it's been a learning process for the PRRA with the RM and City council, since the PRRA hasn't maintained a campground before. The average site is going to be between 30 to 35 feet deep, and 40 to 45 feet wide. Each application must accompany a $250 deposit. If you're selected in the lottery, the $250 will remain with the PRRA as a damage deposit for the season. Those not selected will receive a refund cheque after the draw.

Sattler says some work still has to be done this year. It's not currently known if long-term sewage service will be fully completed this year, next year or even by 2022. That will take time.

He says if you don't currently have a camper or motor-home, and will choose to obtain one if you're selected, you do not have to send your registration with the application. He says without a registration available upon selection by lottery, you must provide proof of registration before you move anything onto the property.

Campground information is here: http://www.strideplace.ca/2018/02/08/delta-campground/