We have lived in Elmvale,…

We have lived in Elmvale, Ontario for over 50 years and with our six children we have always enjoyed wonderful local Ontario’s nature in every season. For many years we have purchased Ontario Provincial Parks day passes which in 2025 still only cost just over $80. We particularly treasure access to Wasaga Beaches 1 to 6 and hear that these beaches are the most used provincial parks in Ontario.

Now in our 80s we really like to stroll the beaches enjoying the ever changing waters of Georgian Bay from the frozen icescapes of February to the glorious blues of summer. On windy days we like to watch the kite surfers in wetsuits skimming over the waves and in summer there are young people on Sea Doos having a rare old time.

But most of all we love to see families and their children from all over Ontario enjoying affordable days at the beach. Many use season day passes or buy a single day pass which costs $21 for a whole family and includes vehicle parking for the day. It makes us proud to see Canada and Ontario’s embrace of multiculturalism, diversity and inclusion in action as families of very diverse backgrounds share time together on the beach in tolerance and acceptance. It is so nice to smell delicious diverse meals being prepared and we are often tempted to ask for a sample – though we don’t.

We are very concerned that privatization of Wasaga’s beach provincial parks (and potentially other provincial parks too) will very much restrict access for Ontario citizens, particularly those with modest means. Already there is virtually nowhere in Tiny Township waterfront areas where visiting families can park. Tiny residents may have permits and property owners control access to the beaches. Many municipalities now charge prohibitive rates for parking close to their best outdoor enjoyment locations. Collingwood and Barrie have $10 an hour parking rates which make it impractical for a family to enjoy a day’s visit.

Provincial parks provide access and welcome citizens from across the province at affordable rates. The parks also address important environmental issues too such as protecting endangered species, protecting and restoring shorelines, as well as educating visitors about preserving our priceless natural environment.

It is our hope that the provincial government will reconsider privatizing our provincial parks and keep them in the safekeeping of the citizens of Ontario.