A couple of Communities In Bloom judges got a tour of Portage la Prairie yesterday.

Glenda McPhee and Wendy Menzies of Neepawa are this year's judges for Portage la Prairie. Portage Community Revitalization Corporation Acting Executive Director Victoria Espey says they had a great day.

Judges Glenda McPhee and Wendy Menzies had a great time in Portage Friday. (photo by Mike Blume)

"Last year we had more of a focus on heritage buildings and this year we focused on environmental practices happening in our city," says Espey. "We took them to our tree disposal area, the composting facility, and our recycling facility. We were out at Fort La Reine museum, the beautiful gardens behind Douglas Campbell Lodge, we really were everywhere today. We think we were on a better track than we were last year, so we're hoping for a better outcome this year."

The tour wrapped up with a barbecue in the afternoon where people could get a chance to ask the judges some questions. Espey says they aren't in the Novice Program this year.

PCRC's Victoria Espey helping to work the grills at the barbecue. (Photo by Mike Blume)

"This year we're in the regular program. That means our bloom rating will be published so everyone can see how Portage La Prairie did as last year it was more hidden. We released our report to the community because it's important they know how we did. What are some things we do well at and what can we work at."

The announcement will be made in the International Peace Gardens on September 9th where Portage's bloom rating is. Espey adds Portage received three blooms last year they're hoping to up that to four this year.