Cracking down

Here are some highlights of information Parks Canada sent in response to inquiries from The Guardian concerning the prohibition on domestic animals on P.E.I. National Parks beaches:

— P.E.I. National Park covers and protects 43 km of shoreline along the island’s north shore…they are an important coastal ecosystem.

— The prohibition against domestic animals on beaches - that includes dogs, cats and horses - was implemented about 16 years ago to protect wildlife and their habitats and provide a safe environment for visitors. — The presence of dogs on the beach is proven to disturb wildlife. For the endangered piping plover, dogs have a negative impact by limiting the birds’ nesting habitat.

In addition, dogs can have a negative impact on bald eagles and a variety of native island wildlife species that use these beaches, such as raccoon, mink, weasel, foxes and coyotes.

— Education and prevention are important elements of the compliance strategy for both the domestic animal ban and for keeping visitors out of closed areas, including both plover nesting areas and sensitive dune ecosystems.

— P.E.I. National Park has increased the number of dedicated compliance team members this season in anticipation of increased visitation and will enforce the National Parks Act to protect the coastal ecosystem and its wildlife species. Park wardens patrol areas of concern, and violators will be charged.

— In 2016, six fines were given, as well as multiple warnings under the prohibition of domestic animals. One fine and several warnings have been given so far this year.