I support the inclusion of…

I support the inclusion of technical climbing in the Devil's Glen area, and it's inclusion in the management plan. Climbing has existed in the area for many decades, indeed climbing history along the escarpment stretches back to the 1980's commonly and even to the post WW2 era.
Climbers, the Alpine Club of Canada with its Access Committee, and the Ontario Alliance of Climbers, have throughout the years, all worked with many landowners and land management agencies such as provincial parks and conservation authorities. This has resulted in many success stories where both the environment and flora and fauna have been protected. Climbing management programs guided by climbers have helped protect local priorities. Studies such as the ancient cedar research were possible because of climbers. Protecting cliff top areas at places like Rattlesnake Point were enabled and implemented because of climbers expertise and participation. Parks like Bon Echo, although not on the escarpment, are a testament to the cooperation climbers and their organisations can attain with land managers.
Climbers generally value their time in nature and consider themselves stewards of the environment. I myself have not only carried out garbage I've happened across, but have organised many crag clean ups. Examples such as the Alpine Club of Canada working with Bon Echo's park management and using bolts to provide alternatives for climbers to avoid protected trees is a classic example of how climbers and their organisations wish to respect the beautiful areas they visit. Devil's Glen is no different. I have memories of stopping off nearby for breakfast en route to the Glen. Quiet days exploring the cliff and the various routes recorded over the decades. Hiding among the foliage, and gullies, avoiding poison ivy haha. Having celebratory drinks at an establishment as we left. It's more than just recreation. Climbing is a physical activity for fitness, but it's also a human essential to immerse oneself in nature. It promotes mental well-being in addition to physical well-being.
In closing, I urge the adoption of climbing as an approved, managed activity at Devil's Glen, and indeed at many other provincial parks. Embrace climbers as the partners and stewards they have the demonstrated potential to be.