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With balmy temperatures in the forecast this coming long weekend, Manitobans may be hitting the beaches earlier than normal.

Three Manitoba beach destinations are now among 26 beaches and seven marinas in Canada to be awarded the Blue Flag this year — a world-renowned eco-certification. Each beach and marina receiving the designation must meet high international standards in water quality, environmental management, environmental education, and safety and services.

“Visitors want to know which Canadian beaches and marinas are the best to visit and the Blue Flag helps to eliminate the guess work,” said Ashley Wallis, Blue Flag program manager with Environmental Defence.

On the list this year is Gimli Beach, West Grand Beach and Winnipeg Beach.

“When you see a Blue Flag flying, you are assured that a beach or marina is clean and meets high safety, water quality, and environmental standards.”

The Blue Flag is administered in Canada by Environmental Defence and is managed internationally by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).