I strongly support the…

I strongly support the creation of a new operating park at this location as long as the development zones are carefully designed to site development, site alteration and servicing infrastructure in the areas of least impact within the park boundaries.

The management plan should:

Include a purpose and vision for the park that places long-term ecological integrity and improvement as a first and overriding priority above operational needs; and,

Zoning options should be based primarily on mitigating impact to the greatest extent possible and to ensure development areas are compact and do not impair ecological integrity of natural heritage features. Facility location should be optimized to be compact where development of structures and site alteration is required. Camp sites should be sited to optimize privacy while still being compact and connected to service facilities such as comfort stations and recreation facilities.

I strongly support the concept of a campground with approximately 250 campsites subject to ecological mitigation plans as well as the proposed up to 25 roofed accommodations (camp cabins) and up to 25 backcountry campsites.

I strongly support a visitor services hub to serve as a centre for day-use and recreational activities
a recreational trail system.

I strongly support facilities such as an access road, comfort stations, water and waste treatment facilities and maintenance facilities subject to design and location that avoids or minimizes impacts. Any unavoidable impacts need to be mitigated prior to disturbance taking place.

I support updates to park policies to protect important natural and cultural values, including species at risk and their habitats.

I support the creation of an operating park designation in a timely fashion.

Ontario Parks should also consider re-opening certain other closed formerly operating parks. The Ontario Government should expand its financial support significantly for parks operating and capital budgets to ensure that facilities are modern, green and best in class.