To whom it may concern, I…

To whom it may concern,

I am pleased to express my strong support for the proposed amendment to the management plan at Devil's Glen and, in particular, the recognition of rock climbing as a permitted activity.

The introduction of a climbing management framework is an important step forward. Rock climbing is a growing, low-impact recreational activity in Ontario and worldwide, and supporting opportunities for this type of recreation is consistent with Ontario Parks’ mission. Climbers have consistently demonstrated their role as good stewards of our natural and cultural landscapes, contributing to the long-term protection and ecological health of the areas where we recreate.

I also appreciate that this proposal has been shaped with input from the climbing community. There are a few areas where the language could be clarified to better reflect standard climbing terminology and practices, particularly around unroped climbing and the handling of loose rock. Clear wording will help ensure both safety and consistency while maintaining the principle of low-impact recreation.

The reclassification of the area to “natural environment” is appropriate, given Devil’s Glen’s importance both for recreation and for preserving representative ecosystems and cultural heritage. It would also be helpful to confirm that the cliff specifically lies within this designation, rather than within a “nature reserve.”

I support enforcement against unauthorized access and interference with trails or climbing routes, and I hope that a parking area and access trail can be established soon, with interim access maintained until those facilities are complete. I also have no concerns about the introduction of day-use fees. The statement that climbing is at the user’s own risk, and that Ontario Parks will not maintain climbing routes, is a reasonable and appropriate approach.

Finally, I encourage ongoing consultation with the climbing community to document routes and explore ways to minimize environmental impacts. Climbers have a strong track record of volunteering in stewardship projects, such as invasive species removal, and would be glad to contribute in similar ways at Devil’s Glen.

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this well-considered proposal. I fully support its adoption.

Sincerely,