Why the mixed messages in handling Castle area?
I am concerned about the closure of OHV and random camping in the new Castle Park system recently announced. The trails being used today are primarily old truck trails, logging trails and cutlines that has existed for over 60 years so even eliminating OHVs does not remove these trails and cutlines.
But even more devastating is closing the random camping. The government is going to build fully serviced (paid) campgrounds, walking trails and remote huts. Fully serviced to meet the needs for overflow tourists from Waterton Lakes. The Westcastle is exempt from any building restrictions so you can only guess what plans are in place. They have already planned motels (some near Beaver Mines) and lodging for tourists.
What happened to Albertans? I do not see why cattle grazing is still permitted. I do not see why guides and outfitters are not impacted. I do not see why hunting is impacted by discharge permits (walk only — no hanging of game) and management purposes only.
Trapping is still allowed with the use of quads and snowmobiles. First Nations are not impacted. Environmentalists are happy but they want to stand on the road and look at the Castle. Did you know reservations are required for a campsite at an unknown cost to a limited few? One vehicle per campsite.
There were no funds for additional staff to enforce infractions and littering concerns but now we have money for 44 people plus the cost of all this development. The government keeps telling the media that Albertans are in favour. Then why are they offering $25,000 grants to municipalities to promote their environmental policies to the public?