Thompson Island Provincial Park Management Plan

Description of policy

Thompson Island Provincial Park (nature reserve class) became part of Ontario’s protected areas system in 1985, when it was formally regulated under the Provincial Parks Act to protect provincially significant earth science and life science features. The total protected area encompasses 145 hectares. The park boundary has been set at the water’s edge of the island.

Thompson Island Provincial Park is located approximately 10 kilometres offshore in Lake Superior, between Thunder Bay and the Canada-U.S. border at the Pigeon River. Access to the park is solely by water or air.

A narrow bay located on the southern shore of Thompson Island has been developed with an elaborate cantilevered dock, sauna and other facilities, and serves as an overnight anchorage for both sail and powerboats.

The interim management statement (1991) identifies that existing development will be allowed to continue, but no further development will be permitted. The interim management statement also permits camping and hiking activities to continue.

In accordance with Ontario Provincial Parks Planning and Management Policies (1992), and with commitments made by the Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, 2006, a management plan is required for Thompson Island Provincial Park. This management plan will define the protected areas goal and objectives.

This planning process is intended to review and update the 1991 Thompson Island Interim Management Statement.

Purpose of policy

To protect the significant natural heritage features of Thompson Island Provincial Park, to provide high quality opportunities for natural heritage appreciation for both residents of Ontario and visitors to the province, and to guide recreation, development, management and operation policies for a 20-year period.

Other public consultation opportunities

Paid advertisements will be placed in regional print media and public notices will be mailed to agencies, groups or individuals on the project mailing list.

The following are the opportunities for Aboriginal communities and the public to participate in the planning process (dates beyond Stage One are tentative):

Stage One - Invitation to Participate, Invitation to Inspect Approved Terms of Reference and Opportunity to Review Background Information file (April 5, 2011 - June 6, 2011)

Stage Two – Opportunity to review Preliminary Park Management Plan (2011)

Stage Three - Release of approved Park Management Plan (2011)