Alberta’s Provincial Parks Act, introduced in 1930 and amended in 2000, provides for preservation of provincial parks, wildland parks, and provincial recreation areas to benefit current and future generations. There are rules and regulations about certain activities and restrictions. Important sites for conservation management are the Wilderness Areas, Ecological Reserves, Natural Areas, and Heritage Rangelands. More information at https://albertaparks.ca/.
The original Plan for Parks (2009-2019) is archived online. A new Plan for Parks: Engagement guide and fact sheet were posted. The first phase of engagement collected feedback from Albertans to inform a Plan. In the second phase, Albertans review the draft and provide input. The proposed vision statement has added cultural benefits and Indigenous reconciliation. There may be additional fees, some partner groups, increased tourism, recreation, and campgrounds.
An Online Survey asked how often you visit parks, what do you most value, what will Alberta Parks look like 100 years from now? If you agree that Albertans should be informed and engaged in park issues, what ways are important to you: a) increase opportunities to provide input into decision making for provincial parks; b) establish clear deliverables and milestones in the new ten-year Plan for Parks; c) consistently report on progress and achievement?
Since Parks conserve nature and connect people with nature, providing access to a variety of nature-based experiences will be important, so that building an appreciation for natural values is a key priority. Which of the following options would you support? a) create more parks to increase conservation and nature access; b) collaborate to improve how information about conservation activities in parks is shared; c) expand interpretive and educational programs to inform and inspire visitors; d) add volunteer opportunities to promote hands-on nature and conservation education.
