Page 7 - Reaching New Heights - Volume 9 Issue 1

GROWING

Together

Southport and Portage

Achieve Five Blooms

“Through partnership and shared pride, Portage la Prairie and Southport are

creating vibrant, welcoming spaces for residents and visitors alike.”

In 2025, the collaboration between the significant amounts of waste from landfills
City of Portage la Prairie and Southport while supporting responsible resource
reached a significant milestone through management.
participation in the Communities in
Bloom program. In their first year Receiving Five Blooms in their first year
entering the competition together, the of collaboration highlights the power
two communities earned an 86.5% rating of partnership. Both Portage la Prairie
and Five Blooms, the highest recognition and Southport are proud of this shared
awarded by the program. achievement and remain committed to
building on that success in the years
ahead.
Recreation and community wellness
were also key themes during the
evaluation. Facilities such as the
Central Plains RecPlex and the Koko
Platz Community Centre demonstrate
a shared commitment to accessible,
year-round recreation. At Southport, the
modern PMLC stands as an example of
sustainable development, designed as a
LEED Silver and Zero Carbon Building
Judges praised the strong partnership facility.
between Portage la Prairie and
Southport, noting that the collaboration Environmental stewardship played a Looking forward, Southport will continue
clearly enhances the experience for major role in the evaluation. Southport’s expanding its environmental initiatives
residents and visitors alike. The joint tour Climate Smart initiatives and Path with additional tree planting, the
showcased a community rich in history, to Net Zero planning, combined with growth of community green spaces,
recreation, and civic pride. Highlights Portage la Prairie’s active transportation and partnerships with Indigenous
included the city’s 139 designated improvements and recycling programs, communities to incorporate Indigenous
historic buildings and sites, as well as highlight a regional commitment to plants throughout the landscape.
cultural landmarks such as Fort la Reine sustainability. Facilities such as Portage Together, these efforts will support a
Museum. and District Recycling continue to divert greener, more connected future for the
entire region.

7 | Southport: Reaching New Heights