Alberta wants your feedback on natural spaces on Parks Day

Parks Day in Canada, celebrated yearly on the third Saturday of July, usually means it’s time to head outdoors and appreciate the mountains and natural spaces across the country.

And Alberta is no exception–but the provincial government also wants your input on its draft Plan for Parks.

The plan is meant for recreation and conservation of parks managed under the Provincial Parks Act. The original plan, introduced in 2009, was intended to last for 10 years.

“We want to ensure the new plan helps support the priorities of visitors while maintaining the natural and cultural heritage of Alberta’s parks,” the province said on its website.

Albertans can participate through a survey found here, which is part of the second phase of its engagement process.

The 26-page draft plan outlined enduring goals, which are being accessible and welcoming, conserving “Alberta’s natural and cultural legacy,” providing diverse nature-based experiences, and effective management for long-term sustainability.

July 26 is the last day Albertans can take the survey.

Meanwhile, to celebrate parks in Alberta, you can head out for a hike, explore the lakeshore, or kick back and enjoy the view.

As of May, seniors over 65 have a 25 per cent discount on camping fees at 142 of Alberta’s nearly 500 campgrounds. The full list can be found here.

The federal government also axed entry fees to national parks for the summer. The “Canada Strong Pass” offers free admission to national parks, national historic sites and marine conservation areas maintained by Parks Canada.

The pass, which also includes a 25 per cent discount on camping fees for national parks, runs until Sept. 2.

Some Albertans hope the province will do the same for passes like the Kananaskis Conservation Pass.

Kananaskis, along with the Bow Valley corridor, costs $15 for the day, with an annual pass costing $90. Entry on the first Wednesday of every month is free.