Portage Rotary Club wraps up phase three of duck pond project

The duck pond rejuvenation project at Island Park is one step closer to completion.

The Rotary Club of Portage la Prairie has been working on the project since 2019 and completed phase three earlier this month. Preston Meier, public relations director for the Rotary Club and chair of the duck pond committee, says they only have one more phase to go.

"We originally thought we wouldn't have lights this year. We pushed that portion of phase three into phase four in the springtime," explains Meier. "But, we were fortunate enough with VR Electric giving us a hand; we got the lights in."

He mentions that the rest of phase three involved the construction of the pergola that RONA supplied, as well as the spotlights that have been set up. Meier says now's the time to take a little break before starting phase four in the spring.

"There's a variety of little things that need to be done," notes Meier. "We're going to finish up some of the plantings. We've got some bump outs that have settled nicely, and we will be doing poured concrete platforms there."

He adds that placing a barrier between the duck pond and the natural area behind it is also important. Once phase four is completed, the city will have a big ribbon-cutting ceremony, and the Rotary Club will be in charge of the upkeep for a minimum of ten years.

One interesting question that's been asked is about the potential of skating on the duck pond. Meier notes that it won't be ready for this year, but skaters should anticipate the pond being available in the future.