I am writing to express…

I am writing to express serious concern regarding the proposed amendment to permit rock climbing at Devil’s Glen Provincial Park. This proposal directly contradicts the core mandate of Ontario Parks under the Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, which prioritizes the protection of ecological integrity above all other uses.
What is most troubling is the recent removal of ecological protection signage and the apparent abandonment of impact assessments in the most sensitive cliff areas of the park. These signs were installed following ecological studies that identified rare vegetation, wildlife, and significant disturbance from unauthorized climbing. Their removal—reportedly in response to political pressure from climbing advocates—raises urgent questions about Ontario Parks’ commitment to its own conservation policies.
If ecological integrity is truly the first priority, why were protection zones dismantled in areas known to host endangered species and fragile cliff ecosystems? These communities have developed over centuries in isolation and are highly vulnerable to even short-term recreational disturbance. Removing signage and halting assessments does not eliminate the ecological impacts—it merely obscures them from public scrutiny and accountability.
This action sends a dangerous message: that ecological protection is negotiable, and that recreational interests can override science-based management. It undermines public trust in Ontario Parks and sets a precedent that threatens other protected areas across the province.
The proposed climbing management plan claims to balance recreation with conservation, yet the removal of protection measures suggests otherwise. Without transparent enforcement, meaningful ecological monitoring, and a demonstrated commitment to conservation, these policies are little more than window dressing.
Devil’s Glen is a unique and irreplaceable natural heritage site. Its management should reflect the highest standards of ecological stewardship—not a pattern of concession to pressure groups. Until Ontario Parks can show that it is willing to uphold its own mandate and protect sensitive environments from further degradation, I cannot support this proposal.