The pool at the Manitou Springs resort near Watrous that was being operated on probation for almost two years has been closed by Saskatoon Health Region officials. While the resort management claimed that the water was safe, the authorities concerned thought otherwise.

The Manitou Springs Hotel and Mineral Spa posted a note on its website on Friday, mentioning that the closure was due to contravention of regulations for the skimmers and filtration system. The hotel, restaurants, gift shop and other businesses connected to the springs, however, will remain open.

The information of the closure was received by the spa management in the form of a phone call at 4 p. m. on Thursday, the order effective at 10 p. m. Friday. The length of the closure has not been determined. Also, the note emphasized that the situation is not due to anybody falling ill or any kind of tragedy. On its part, the management has termed the closure decision unfair.

Confirming the closure, Dr. Johnmark Opondo, Deputy Medical Health Officer with the Saskatoon Health Region, said the pool had been operating under a probationary license for some time, with the first probationary license issued Feb. 12, 2008. He said the pool "is not compliant with provincial health regulations."