I support the development of…

I support the development of Bigwind Lake as an operating Provincial Park.

A good portion of my teen years were spent in the area now designated as Bigwind Provincial Park. At that time the area was still Crown Land, accessible by road with the main lakes connected by unmarked portage trails. I learned canoe skills, where all the big fish were and how to camp backcountry. It was there that I heard wolves howl for the first time, and once, while drifting along the shoreline in our canoe, my father and I caught a glimpse of what could only have been a cougar. That sight stayed with us for a lifetime.

Because of that particular experience I believe the backcountry of the park should have a minimal amount of development and be accessible only by hiking trail or paddle.

The best location for the main campground would be on Bigwind Lake itself as this lake already has a human footprint on it. At this point in the development plans, I think 250 camp sites are excessive and the possibility of having a store, rental shop or snack bar on site is not in the best interests of maintaining the protection and health of the local wildlife and the environment.

I also would suggest that the campground have a minimal impact along the shoreline of the lake. The main body of the campground should be back off of the shoreline and there should be little or no artificial beach. Preserving the natural shoreline encourages wildlife and fish habitats. Motor boats should not be allowed because of noise and the possibility of shore erosion. Fishing, canoe, kayaks and SUP’s encouraged.

Provincial Parks allow people to reconnect with the natural world and they give us a chance to disconnect from modern life- our work and social media most importantly. For this reason I believe the campsites should not have electricity and wifi availability should be at a minimum.

Any lighting in the park should be designed to preserve the night sky.

My major concerns lie with the planned location of the campground and it’s supporting infrastructure, ie. access roads, electrical transmission lines and wastewater facilities. These are the areas where I would appreciate more information.