RDEK to ramp up patrols on Windermere Beach after vandalism, after-hours parties

Visitors to Windermere Beach will have to enjoy their vices in moderation after the Regional District of East Kootenay (RDEK) hired additional security this August long weekend. 

More patrols will be deployed from Friday through Monday, while regular security will continue for the remainder of the summer. The Columbia Valley RCMP had been asked to assist with the Beach due to ongoing vandalism, after-hours parties, and littering in both public spaces and private residences in the neighbourhood. 

“We have had security in place on roving patrols throughout the summer months since these issues arose last year and found it did make a difference on site over the Canada Day weekend when once again, we saw late-night parties involving large groups of mostly young people,” said RDEK General Manager of Operations, Grayson Mauch.

“While we are doing what we can to discourage this activity at the public beach, we continue to appeal to the public – no matter your age – to respect the park and its rules, respect the neighbours, and stop this unnecessary behaviour.”

Windermere Beach is located at the end of Selkirk Street in Windermere, roughly 90 minutes north of Cranbrook.