WINNIPEG, Man. — Manitoba Transportation Minister Ron Lemieux yesterday announced the province’s winter road network is now operational.

“With the opening of the winter roads system, we are also continuing to progress with projects that reflect our remote access and northern development strategies for meeting the transportation needs of each community,” Lemieux said. “We recognize the important role the winter road system plays in overcoming social and economic challenges facing our northern and remote communities.”

The province has relocated many winter roads in recent years, and has begun using more overland routes to increase safety, minimize environmental impacts and enabling the roads to stay open longer.

Winter roads currently open to full loads include: Bloodvein, Berens River, Poplar River, Oxford House, God’s Lake Narrows, Thicket Portage, Pikwitonei, York Landing, Ilford, Brochet and Lac Brochet, as well as the Seafalls and Pipestone crossings.

There are weight restrictions on winter roads into South Indian Lake and from Pukatawagan to Kississing Lake. The remaining winter roads are expected to be opened within days, weather permitting.

Manitoba’s winter roads span 2,174 kms and serve more than 38,000 Manitobans. About 2,000 shipments are hauled over winter roads each year, consisting mainly of fuel, construction materials and general freight.