I am tremendously in favour…

I am tremendously in favour of the proposed amendments and additions to provincial parks and conservation reserves.

As a donor to several conservation charities and a lifelong user of Ontario parks and conservation reserves I applaud the province’s efforts.

I am also a rock climber and enjoy the opportunity provided on provincial owned lands to climb with my children and friends. One area identified for increased regulation as a conservation reserve is the kolapor uplands (identified as #40 on in the list of areas to be redesignated). Hiking is identified as an activity In this area. This area also contains two of southern Ontario’s most beloved recreational rock climber areas. One of only a few dozen areas in the province. The cliffs on the land contain hundreds of routes, providing opportunities for beginners and advanced climbers. Many thousands of Ontario residents enjoy climbing in this area per year. They do so in a safe manner that respects the natural environment, and is consistent with the future designation of this place as a conservation reserve.
I would request that rock climbing be identified in the supplementary documents about the kolapor uplands. This will ensure that climbing is identified as an important recreational use of this site before it the change in designation is approved. My suggestion aims to ensure that future management planning for the area will recognize from the beginning the importance of this area as a climbing resource. I believe the Ontario climbers alliance would be pleased to support any such future work.
Thank you for protecting nature in the province and opportunities for recreation!