Wasaga Beach Park Planning:…

Wasaga Beach Park Planning: Management Topics and Options

3.1 Purpose Statement Considerations

This statement seems appropriate, although I will comment later on the need for an integrated trail network for hiking and cycling through the park system.

3.2 Vision Statement Considerations

This statement is appropriate.

4 Permitted Uses and Activities

While I generally agree with the decision making framework, much closer coordination must take place with the Town of Wasaga Beach's objectives for recreational uses in order to meet the needs of the local residents.

Recreational beach uses should be carefully managed to provide a harassment free, safe environment for families. To this extent I disagree with permitting nude beaches, dog beaches, sky diving. Kite boarding should be limited and permitted well away from swimming areas.

5 Boundary Considerations

The considerations for amendments to the boundaries of the park are generally appropriate.

Much more needs to be done to rationalize the footprint of the park within the Town of Wasaga Beach through additional property acquisitions and the linkages to connect the various components together.

The fragmented approach to the park management between the Town of Wasaga Beach and the Province should also be rationalized. It is very confusing that visitors move from one jurisdiction to the other (Beach Area 1 and 2 for example).

Considering that this park is a precious resource and in proximity to millions of people it is poorly maintained and under serviced. The walking and cycling trails for example should be continuous throughout and be paved for safety reasons and for the enjoyment of the public as they are in many other municipalities.

6.1 Overnight Accommodation

The Wasaga Beach Provincial Park is primarily a day use park due to its proximity to the Greater Toronto Area. But overnight accommodation allows visitors to enjoy the park over an extended period of time and also contribute to the local economy.

I believe such overnight accommodation should be encouraged by the private sector outside of the boundaries of the Provincial Park due to its negative impact on the Provincial Park's fragile eco-system.

The notion of allowing campgrounds in Beach Area 4 and Environs would negatively impact the adjoining neighbourhoods through intensifying park use and increasing noise levels and undesirable behaviour.

6.2 Park Classification

To classify the Park as either Recreational or Natural Environment is to simplistic an approach to this particular park. I believe that the classification should have elements of both depending on the location in the park.

6.3 Beach Access Paths

I believe that the current access is appropriate but could be better signed.

6.4 Rename the Beach Areas

The naming of the beach areas from 1 to 6 lacks creativity. Creative renaming reflecting the neighbourhood or the characteristics of the beach area should be considered in close consultation with the Town of Wasaga Beach and interested Stakeholders.

Additional Comment

It is an embarrassment that this park needs to exist on gate revenue generated by users. It is a provincial treasure and the infrastructure should be funded to the same degree as other major urban municipal parks.