I am writing to express my…

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed removal of land from Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, including Nancy Island and Beach Areas 1, 2, New Wasaga, and Allenwood Beach, as outlined in the recent Environmental Registry posting. Though each change may seem small, removing multiple beach areas from protection represents a significant cumulative loss of ecological integrity across the park.

While I recognize the importance of tourism and economic development, these proposed changes pose a significant threat to the natural environment of Wasaga Beach and contradict Ontario’s long-standing commitments to conservation and ecological protection.

Key Concerns:
1. Loss of Environmental Protection
The transfer of land from the Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act (PPCRA) to the Heritage Parks Act (HPA) or to municipal control removes crucial environmental protections. These areas will no longer benefit from the high conservation standards guaranteed under the PPCRA.

2. Threats to Sensitive Habitats and Species
Wasaga Beach is home to one of the most extensive freshwater dune systems in the world and serves as critical habitat for species at risk, including the endangered Piping Plover. Increased development and tourism activity in these areas will disturb fragile ecosystems, increase pollution, and lead to habitat degradation.

3. Precedent for Park Downsizing
Allowing the removal and sale of protected park lands for municipal redevelopment sets a dangerous precedent across Ontario. Protected areas should not be subject to piecemeal reduction based on local economic pressures.

4. Lack of Transparency and Long-Term Vision
There has been inadequate information provided on how the natural and cultural heritage will actually be protected under this new framework. There is no environmental impact assessment or evidence-based justification demonstrating that these changes are in the public or ecological interest.

I urge the Ministries involved to:

1) Halt the removal of any lands from Wasaga Beach Provincial Park.

2) Maintain Nancy Island and the identified beach areas under the PPCRA.

3) Engage in transparent, science-based consultations with independent environmental experts, Indigenous communities, and the broader public.

4) Explore alternative tourism strategies that enhance the local economy without sacrificing protected land.

Wasaga Beach Provincial Park is a rare ecological treasure, and its integrity should be preserved not only for today's visitors, but for future generations.

Thanks for hearing us out on this important matter.