Under the category of …

Under the category of “Permitted uses and activities” I want to express my full support for designating a section of the beach to allow clothing optional or nude use.

I am a member of the Federation of Canadian Naturists and regularly go to naturist beaches. Most often I am forced to leave Canada and spend my vacation dollars outside of Canada. Partially that is due to Canada's climate but partially it is due to a lack of good beaches in Canada designated for nude use. There are only two in Canada, Wreck Beach and Hanlan's Beach. Europe and the Caribbean have many more options. I have made use Hanlan's beach in Toronto but the opportunity to use Wasaga Beach would be a major improvement for all naturists in Ontario.

The designation of a section of Wasaga Beach for naturist use would materially support several Social and Economic Factors in the management plan.

1) It would over time drive a significant increase in recreational use. Any casual review of other beaches that have been designated clearly demonstrate increases use. Hanlan's beach gets more use (when not in a state of flood as it is now). At Haulover beach in Florida they have seen a marked increase in use and economic activity since it's designation in 1991. Increased use does not necessarily increase environmental degradation. Naturists through their philosophy are respectful of minimizing damage to the dunes by strictly adhering to paths and taking out their trash. The only infrastructure that must be supplied are signs that would clearly designate the naturist area.

2) Your background document notes that spending time in nature improves physical, mental and social well-being. Exposure to the naturist philosophy through the use of a naturist beach adds some specific benefits in the areas of:
providing participants with a positive body image.
Increased self-esteem
increased life satisfaction

There are some sources that provide additional support for these ideas and I will provide links and documentation. It is important to note that there have NOT been any significant problems experienced with implementing naturist beaches. At Hanlan's beach in Toronto the most significant complaint came only from the naturists who felt that too many people were coming to the beach and remaining in their swimsuits. There are not been problems with parties or illicit activities.

I would strongly recommend that Ontario Parks seriously consider designating a small portion of the beach to naturist use.