Proposed Parks Legislation

There are a full range of issues and challenges facing the Alberta parks system that new legislation needs to address. Parks legislation must work in the interest of all Albertans and ensure that our parks are not only protected, but accessible to Albertans for their recreation and well-being.

In Spring 2010, Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation proposed new park legislation to align with Alberta's Plan for Parksand ensure park classifications are easier for the public to understand. Feedback was gathered during a 60 day online public comment period that ended July 17, 2010. We thank everyone who provided feedback.

The legislation proposed:

• A simplified park classification system and zoning regulations to more clearly communicate to the public what they can do in which parks throughout the parks system;
• Establishing a mandatory public notice process for changes in the parks system; and
• Establishing a Parks Conservation Foundation and Parks Advisory Council.

A lot of valuable information was gathered from the public consultation and is summarized here: What We Heard. Based on subsequent public feedback and debate on the legislation, the Minister of Tourism, Parks and Recreation has decided to spend additional time to address the main concerns raised by Albertans before bringing back parks legislation.

Interested Albertans and stakeholders can email parknews@gov.ab.ca to be informed of future parks consultations.

We encourage all Albertans to take an active role in planning the future of Alberta parks.

Further Information

Learn more about Alberta's Plan for Parks.

Media inquiries may be directed to:

Camille Weleschuk
Public Affairs Officer
Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation
780-427-2206
camille.weleschuk@gov.ab.ca

*Disclaimer: We thank you for providing your input. Those who submit feedback will not be contacted individually regarding their submission.