Re: Proposed legislative…

Re: Proposed legislative amendments to the Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, 2006, and Historical Parks Act
ERO number 025-0694

I am writing to register my opposition to the proposal to remove Nancy Island from Wasaga Provincial Park. This area includes vital nesting habitat for the endangered Piping Plover and as such it is crucial that it remain under the jurisdiction of the Ontario Parks. It is only with this oversight that the rights and significance of this endangered species will be recognized and honoured. Boosting tourism and driving economic growth at the expense of fragile species and ecosystems is reprehensible. Moreover, giving priority to profit for the benefit of select developers and tourism operators is short term planning. It is counterproductive. Tourism activities and infrastructure must evolve in keeping with practices that prioritize responsible stewardship for the land, water and more than human species. Without this, the aspects of Ontario that are tourist draws will disappear. Having title to a place must not entitle destructive and profit-oriented behaviour. Provincial parks are a crucial component in the health and well-being of all members of the Ontario public.