Why parks matter

David Bree (Senior Natural Heritage Leader, Presqu’ile Provincial Park)

Why do Parks Matter?  Unfortunately that is becoming an increasingly pertinent question in an age where screen time outweighs nature time on a regular basis.

Working in a park, I can answer that question in a number of ways.  The most obvious perhaps is that parks provide protection for a great many habitats, which in turn provide space and resources for the animals and plants of the province to function in a normal fashion.  This is in essence the definition of biodiversity, a whole bunch of things living and interconnecting in a complex web.  This is a bit of a catch word these days, but maintaining a high biodiversity in our world has been shown to make for a more robust and healthy environment. And a healthy environment is integral to our survival – it supplies our air, our water and our food, just to name the most obvious and crucial elements of life.  While to me this is a compelling and obvious argument, it has become sterile to many ears that have been bombarded by warnings of environmental doom and gloom all their lives.  After a while people just don’t hear.

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SAIL – VIP adventure contest in Temagami

Winter is over and summer fun awaits – you and a guest could be going on a Temagami adventure!

Temagami is one of Ontario’s special places offering wilderness experiences amongst countless lakes and rivers embedded amongst untouched old growth Red and White Pine forests. Hundred year old trails navigate the rugged terrain featuring several of Ontario’s highest peaks, and legendary fishing opportunities await those who explore this region.    Seven provincial parks offer the best of Temagami; an ideal playground for anglers, paddlers, hikers, photographers, and adventure seekers of all types.

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The day the world turns pink

Join Ontario Parks in the celebration of the International Day of Pink

On April 8, OntarioParks.com will be turning pink in recognition of the International Day of Pink, which celebrates diversity and raises awareness to end homophobia, transphobia, transmisogyny and all forms of bullying.

In addition to our support for the International Day of Pink, Ontario Parks is committed to creating welcoming spaces that are inclusive and free from discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression.

We will also be launching a dedicated webpage that includes a list of all provincial parks with positive space trained staff. For more information, please visit www.ontarioparks.com/positivespace .

Please join us in celebrating diversity and inclusion. What will you be wearing?