I strongly oppose the…

I strongly oppose the proposed removal of parts of Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, specifically Beach Areas 1, 2, New Wasaga, and Allenwood Beach. While I understand the intention behind promoting tourism and revitalizing the local economy, this proposal poses serious risks to the environment and long-term ecological health of the area.

Wasaga Beach Provincial Park is a vital natural space that has been preserved for nearly 70 years. Removing these areas from provincial park protection and transferring control to the Town of Wasaga Beach could undermine the park’s primary goal of environmental conservation. Tourism, if not managed carefully, can lead to overdevelopment, habitat destruction, and increased pollution, which would harm the delicate ecosystems of Wasaga Beach.

By placing these areas under the control of MTCG and the Town of Wasaga Beach, there is a significant concern that economic development could take precedence over environmental protection. Local municipalities may not have the same stringent regulations for conservation as MECP, which could result in the degradation of natural resources, loss of biodiversity, and damage to water quality—critical issues for both local wildlife and community health.

Although the government claims that Crown ownership of lake and riverbed areas will remain, the removal of these beach areas from the provincial park diminishes the overall oversight and protection of the ecosystem as a whole. We cannot afford to sacrifice environmental integrity for short-term economic gains. We need to preserve these areas not just for tourism, but as part of our natural heritage for future generations.

I urge the government to reconsider this proposal and prioritize the long-term sustainability of Wasaga Beach Provincial Park, protecting its natural and cultural assets over commercial development. Sustainable tourism and economic growth can be achieved without compromising the ecological health of this vital natural space.