Kootenay National Park - Management Planning

The Kootenay National Park Draft management plan includes a vision for the park at its future best.

The vision for the future of Kootenay National Park includes these key elements:

• Ktunaxa and Secwépemc peoples are reconnected to this part of their traditional territory;
• native forest ecosystems are shaped by fire;
• healthy wildlife populations thrive with secure habitat and travel corridors;
• visitor learning opportunities are available and focused on Kootenay’s natural and human history;
• a range of nature and culture-based recreational opportunities are provided to visitors and supported by high-quality facilities and services;
• research and education continues on the globally significant Burgess Shale fossil sites;
• Kootenay National Park and the Village of Radium Hot Springs are integrated in ways that support the community and promote park stewardship.

 Do you agree with this vision for Kootenay National Park?

The protection of natural and cultural resources, ecological integrity, and park landscapes is core to Kootenay’s existence. Parks Canada’s approach to conserving these important aspects will be guided by an understanding of and respect for the significance of place, ecological integrity and cultural values.  

Do you have any comments on this strategy?

National parks provide exceptional opportunities for Canadians to develop a sense of connection to their natural and cultural heritage. The opportunity to be immersed in nature, history and diverse cultures while surrounded by wilderness and mountain landscapes is truly distinctive. Maintaining the authenticity and quality of this experience while ensuring that visitors understand its uniqueness is central to Parks Canada’s mandate.

Do you have any comments on this strategy?

The Government of Canada has committed to deepen and strengthen relationships with Indigenous peoples. With approaches founded on renewed relationships, respect and cooperation, the mountain national parks will continue to recognize Indigenous connections and work with Indigenous peoples to advance priorities of mutual interest.

Do you have any comments on this strategy?

Parks Canada strives to make the natural and cultural heritage of the park better known through engaging programs and educational content that helps to build a sense of connection. As people come to understand this heritage, they will come to value and support national parks in the future, and be inspired to engage in conservation and stewardship activities wherever they may live. This strategy focuses on providing learning programs and services to park visitors while reaching out to Canadians where they live to connect them with this special place.

Do you have any comments on this strategy?

Ecological integrity will be the first priority in park management, including in managing development. Parks Canada’s approach will be transparent and consistent, and will continue to respect limits, zoning and declared wilderness designations.  

Do you have any comments on this strategy?

The mountain national parks will strive to contribute to landscape-scale conservation in Canada by being ecologically and socially connected across boundaries. Parks Canada will aim to maintain and expand regional collaboration to better monitor, understand and address landscape-level issues.

Do you have any comments on this strategy?

Parks Canada is committed to protecting park ecosystems for future generations by demonstrating leadership in sustainable operations and adaptive management in response to climate change impacts. The mountain national parks will continue to collaborate with others on climate change research, monitoring and education.

Do you have any comments on this strategy?