FOR THE LOVE OF PARKS
A look at a few of the Alberta nature areas slated to be delisted or partially closed
Home to Canada’s first national park, Alberta has a long history of preserving natural areas. Little wonder many Albertans were upset with the announcement that 20 provincial parks will see full or partial closures in 2020 and 164 others (almost 35 per cent of the total) have been identified for proposed removal from the provincial parks system.
The Alberta government says the parks that will be closed or delisted are underutilized, but some specialists disagree with that rationale for making cuts. “It’s not just about the number of people visiting these sites, it’s about habitat protection,” said Glenn Gustafson, recently retired manager of education and public engagement with Alberta Environment and Parks. “With the development pressures in Alberta, we need more parks, not less. Once we lose these parks, we probably won’t get them back.”
Protected public lands provide important habitat for wildlife, safeguard groundwater, improve the air we breathe and offer a place for locals and visitors to get out and connect with nature — something that’s been scientifically shown to reduce stress and improve overall health.
I love Alberta’s parks, natural areas and wild spaces. If I had to choose between closing and delisting provincial parks for a savings of $5 million or eliminating a $30-million energy war room, I’d choose love over war every time. Check out these three parks — all on the hit list.
DRY ISLAND BUFFALO JUMP
Located near Trochu, this park bears a strong resemblance to Dinosaur Provincial Park. There are hoodoos and badlands, a flowing river, a variety of birds and mammals and aspen-rich woods. There are even dinosaur fossils. One of the world’s most important Albertosaurus bone beds is inside the park and excavations have taken place there in the past. As the name implies, the park is home to an ancient buffalo jump and a unique geological feature called the dry island. The only thing missing here is crowds. While the lack of crowds is appealing, it also moves the park into the “underutilized” category. The good news is that the main area of the park will remain open as a day use area. The bad news — the campgrounds near the park will be permanently closed due to budget cuts.