The Katzie Development Corporation has just procured 20 canoes for rental at Pitt Lake in time for the Victoria Day long weekend.

While the details on how payment will be handled to rent the canoes are still being determined, the cost has been set at $55 per day for a 16-foot canoe, and $85 per day for a 20-foot canoe.

The boat launch has been busy over the past few weekends, said Katzie Development Corporation's acting general manager Debbie Miller, with the lineup often eight to 12 deep.

The boat launch fee is $10 and can be paid through the parking meter. Daytime parking is free, but overnight parking is $5.

Boats can be launched between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. during which time the gates to the park are open.

With no running water and electricity, there most likely won't be a concession this year, but Miller hopes in the future to have a food truck provide a concession for people using the day-use area.

There are portable toilets available for use.

The park was previously run by Metro Vancouver and was then known as Grant Narrows Regional Park.

The Katzie Cultural Education Society responded to a request for proposals to run the popular Pitt Lake recreation area, and were awarded the licence last year.

Miller said Katzie are starting small with their economic activities at Pitt Lake and look to expand in the future.

Cabins are available for rent from Pitt Lake Wilderness Adventures by calling 604-465-5367. The cabins have some amenities like propane stoves and fridges. For more information, go to www.pittlakewilderness.com.

mrantanen@mrtimes.com