Peace Garden reminds travellers its visitors needn’t cross border

The International Peace Garden is bracing for a possible slowdown in traffic this season due to continuing tensions in the ongoing U.S.-Canada tariff dispute.

“It’s hard for us to say right now what the impact will be this year,” chief executive officer Tim Chapman told the Sun on Tuesday. “But we’re following the news and seeing how border crossings are down in a lot of areas.

“We are cautiously optimistic, while also understanding that there could be a decline in revenue this year.”

Nestled on the border between Manitoba and North Dakota, the garden is one of North America’s unique symbols of binational co-operation and has long celebrated friendship and peace.

While Americans have traditionally made up a slight majority of summer traffic — about 55 per cent, according to Chapman — Canadian attendance has been a consistent pillar of support.

However, with school divisions such as Brandon’s recently suspending all U.S. travel for students and staff, ripple effects are beginning to be felt even in neutral spaces like the Peace Garden.

“That could affect their September annual partnership with the International Music Camp,” Chapman said, referring to a three-day program that typically brings students across the border.

“We’re emphasizing to schools that visiting the Peace Garden doesn’t require proper entry into the U.S. or going through U.S. Customs — only Canadian Border Services.”

With the broader mood among Canadians having shifted and hesitancy growing over cross-border travel, the Peace Garden’s message is focused on reassuring visitors of a seamless experience that supports local economies without the complications of entering another country.

“There’s never been a better time to visit the garden,” Chapman said. “You can still come from Brandon or Winnipeg, enjoy the Peace Garden, and support the small towns in southwest Manitoba along the way.”

While the Peace Garden remains politically neutral as a registered non-profit in both nations, Chapman confirmed the unease among partners and patrons. He said a recent North Dakota Department of Commerce report estimated an $8-million loss in tourism revenue in February and March alone, highlighting just how far-reaching the effects of the tariff war could be.

Despite the cautionary forecasts, Chapman remains hopeful.

“We’ve been encouraged by a variety of visitors who have already come through over the last month. The conservatory’s collection is blooming, and as we move into peak season from mid-July through August, we’re hoping that spirit of peace and co-operation will continue to bring people together — even in turbulent times.”

aodutola@brandonsun.com

X: @AbiolaOdutola