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ISBN 978-1-4601-4110-6 (Print) ISBN 978-1-4601-4111-3 (PDF) Printed November 2018

Provincial Parks Wildland Provincial Park

Provincial Recreation Areas

Public Land Use Zone (PLUZ)

Public Land Recreation Area (PLRA)

Visitor Experience Protected areas where the primary purpose is the conservation of nature. Offers wide range of nature-based recreational opportunities.

Protected areas where the primary purpose is the conservation of nature on large, healthy landscapes with opportunities for backcountry/wilderness recreation and experiencing nature in a relatively undisturbed state.

Primary purpose is the provision or support for nature-based outdoor recreation opportunities with some potential for local tourism and education opportunities.

Designated areas of public land established under the Public Lands Administration Regulation (PLAR) to assist in the management of natural resources and recreational land uses.

Designated areas of public land established under the Public Lands Administration Regulation (PLAR) to assist in the management of high intensity recreational use.

Permitted Uses

Hunting Limited to a minority of sites where clearly permitted – check regulations

Yes Limited to a minority of sites where clearly permitted – check regulations

Yes Yes

Recreational Off-highway Vehicles

Yes, on designated trails





Auto Access Camping Yes, in designated areas

No Yes, in designated areas

Yes, must camp at least 1km away from PRAs and PLRAs

Yes

Backcountry Camping Yes, in designated areas only

Yes, undesignated only permitted if no closer than 1 km from designated area

Yes, in designated areas only


Yes

Commercial Trail Riding

Yes, via permits Yes, via permits Yes, via permits Yes, via permits Yes, via permits

Equestrian Use Yes, on designated trails



Yes Yes

Fishing Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Hiking Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Climbing/Caving Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Snowmobiling Yes, on designated trails and areas

Yes, on designated trails and areas




Mountain Biking Yes, on designated trails



Yes Yes

Water Based Recreation

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Commercial Forestry No No No Yes Yes

Coal, Metallic and Industrial Mineral (Crown Owned)

No No No Yes Yes

Existing Petroleum and Natural Gas Commitments (Crown Owned)

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

New Petroleum and Natural Gas (Crown Owned)

Yes, but with no surface access



Yes Yes

Exploration and Development of Freehold

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Existing Sand and Gravel

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

New Sand and Gravel No No No Yes Yes

Existing grazing Yes via permits Yes via permits Yes, via permits Yes No

New grazing Subject to grazing suitability assessment

No Subject to grazing suitability assessment

Yes No

This information is intended as a general guide to some of the regulations under the Provincial Parks Act, Public Lands Act and a variety of other provincial and federal legislation that applies to land use activities in Alberta.

The GOA is committed to respecting the constitutionally protected rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Have your say at TalkAEP.ca

Bighorn Country Proposal

What do the designations mean for me?

Bighorn Country Proposal Bighorn Country Proposal

Bighorn Wildland Provincial Park

• Would conserve nature and allow low-impact backcountry recreation activities and services provided by both the public and private sectors.

• Focus on high-quality hunting, fishing and other nature-based recreation experiences.

• Equestrian and off-highway vehicle use would continue, where appropriate, on designated trails.

Snow Creek Provincial Recreation Area

• Minor expansion would allow development of winter tourism activities, potentially including a Nordic ski trail system.

• Could provide a staging area for snowmobiles to access adjacent trails.

Improving Bighorn Country for a Growing AlbertaBighorn Country contains some of the greatest unrealized tourism potential in Alberta for its unique ecosystems and stunning landscapes. It is a source of clean drinking water and home to a large variety of plants and animals, including rare and at-risk species.

To conserve this landscape and manage social and economic activity in the area, the government is proposing the designation of a new Wildland Provincial Park and new, expanded or amended parks, recreation areas, and Public Land Use Zones.

Changes to land designations in Bighorn Country would better protect headwaters and biodiversity, provide high-quality outdoor recreation, and support unrealized tourism potential.

Indigenous cooperative management could also be explored in parks and protected areas, in addition to supporting continued traditional Indigenous activity on the land.

Tourism DevelopmentTourism is an important contributor to the region’s economy and Bighorn Country possesses unrealised tourism potential.

Modifying existing land designations could provide for different types of tourism development. Combined, these could support new opportunities, directly benefitting businesses and the local economy. Appropriate commercial recreation and tourism development could be identified through the parks planning process, including public consultation and engagement.

Kiska-Willson Public Land Use Zone

• Would continue to provide a large network of trails for motorized and non-motorized use.

• Would continue to support exploration for, and development of, coal, limestone and other resources.

• The northern portion would provide commercial recreation and tourism opportunities, while the southern portion would focus on low-impact backcountry recreation and tourism.

West Country Public Land Use Zone

• Trails and camping areas would remain open. Future recreation management planning is needed to thoughtfully manage impacts of recreation activities on other land uses and the environment.

• Would continue to permit industrial uses, such as forestry and energy, and existing public land recreation areas would remain.

• Recreation planning may include new trails, staging areas and other infrastructure, including support for commercial recreation and tourism development.

Bighorn Dam Provincial Recreation Area

• Focus would be on providing trails, staging areas and campgrounds to suit different recreation and tourism uses.

• OHV and snowmobile use would be permitted on designated trails, and a staging area would link campgrounds to the existing trail network in surrounding areas.

Hummingbird Provincial Recreation Area

• An important campground and staging area that provides access to the Bighorn Wildland Provincial Park or the Kiska-Willson Public Land Use Zone.

• Focus would be on providing trails, staging areas and campgrounds to suit different recreation and tourism uses.

Shunda Provincial Recreation Area

• Would expand and consolidate Fish Lake and Goldeye Lake Provincial Recreation Areas.

• Focus would be on maintaining, enhancing and providing new facilities and infrastructure to suit diverse recreation and tourism uses.

David Thompson Provincial Park

• Would incorporate the Thompson Creek and Kootenay Plains Provincial Recreation Areas and the Kootenay Plains Ecological Reserve.

• Would offer a number of front country experiences and connect visitors with the Bighorn Wildland Provincial Park.

• Focus would be on developing services, facilities and infrastructure to support current and future demand for recreation and tourism opportunities while prioritizing conservation.

North Saskatchewan River Provincial Park

• Would protect important natural landscapes that are unique to Bighorn Country.

• Would provide opportunities for water-based recreation, hiking, mountain biking and equestrian uses.

• Parks management planning would help determine the need for specific trails and infrastructure to support conservation, recreation, tourism and education.

Ya Ha Tinda Provincial Park

• Ya Ha Tinda Provincial Park contains diverse landscape types and a wide range of experiences.

• It is an important staging area for the Bighorn Wildland Provincial Park, providing access for equestrian and other recreational uses.

Have Your Say Today

Visit talkAEP.alberta.ca today to give us your feedback on the Bighorn Country proposal.

Your feedback will be considered for how we classify the proposed public lands.

After the lands in question are classified, further consultation will be held to inform recreation and management planning.

Bighorn Country Proposal Bighorn Country Proposal


• Would conserve nature and allow low-impact backcountry recreation activities and services provided by both the public and private sectors.

• Focus on high-quality hunting, fishing and other nature-based recreation experiences.

• Equestrian and off-highway vehicle use would continue, where appropriate, on designated trails.


• Minor expansion would allow development of winter tourism activities, potentially including a Nordic ski trail system.

• Could provide a staging area for snowmobiles to access adjacent trails.

Improving Bighorn Country for a Growing AlbertaBighorn Country contains some of the greatest unrealized tourism potential in Alberta for its unique ecosystems and stunning landscapes. It is a source of clean drinking water and home to a large variety of plants and animals, including rare and at-risk species.

To conserve this landscape and manage social and economic activity in the area, the government is proposing the designation of a new Wildland Provincial Park and new, expanded or amended parks, recreation areas, and Public Land Use Zones.

Changes to land designations in Bighorn Country would better protect headwaters and biodiversity, provide high-quality outdoor recreation, and support unrealized tourism potential.

Indigenous cooperative management could also be explored in parks and protected areas, in addition to supporting continued traditional Indigenous activity on the land.

Tourism DevelopmentTourism is an important contributor to the region’s economy and Bighorn Country possesses unrealised tourism potential.

Modifying existing land designations could provide for different types of tourism development. Combined, these could support new opportunities, directly benefitting businesses and the local economy. Appropriate commercial recreation and tourism development could be identified through the parks planning process, including public consultation and engagement.


• Would continue to provide a large network of trailsfor motorized and non-motorized use.

• Would continue to support exploration for, anddevelopment of, coal, limestone and otherresources.

• The northern portion would provide commercialrecreation and tourism opportunities, while thesouthern portion would focus on low-impactbackcountry recreation and tourism.


• Trails and camping areas would remain open. Futurerecreation management planning is needed tothoughtfully manage impacts of recreation activitieson other land uses and the environment.

• Would continue to permit industrial uses, suchas forestry and energy, and existing public landrecreation areas would remain.

• Recreation planning may include new trails, stagingareas and other infrastructure, including support forcommercial recreation and tourism development.


• Focus would be on providing trails, staging areasand campgrounds to suit different recreation andtourism uses.

• OHV and snowmobile use would be permittedon designated trails, and a staging area wouldlink campgrounds to the existing trail network insurrounding areas.


• An important campground and staging area thatprovides access to the Bighorn Wildland ProvincialPark or the Kiska-Willson Public Land Use Zone.

• Focus would be on providing trails, staging areasand campgrounds to suit different recreation andtourism uses.


• Would expand and consolidate Fish Lake andGoldeye Lake Provincial Recreation Areas.

• Focus would be on maintaining, enhancing andproviding new facilities and infrastructure to suitdiverse recreation and tourism uses.


• Would incorporate the Thompson Creek andKootenay Plains Provincial Recreation Areas and theKootenay Plains Ecological Reserve.

• Would offer a number of front country experiencesand connect visitors with the Bighorn WildlandProvincial Park.

• Focus would be on developing services, facilitiesand infrastructure to support current and futuredemand for recreation and tourism opportunitieswhile prioritizing conservation.


• Would protect important natural landscapes that areunique to Bighorn Country.

• Would provide opportunities for water-basedrecreation, hiking, mountain biking and equestrianuses.

• Parks management planning would help determinethe need for specific trails and infrastructure tosupport conservation, recreation, tourism andeducation.


• Ya Ha Tinda Provincial Park contains diverselandscape types and a wide range of experiences.

• It is an important staging area for the BighornWildland Provincial Park, providing access forequestrian and other recreational uses.

Have Your Say Today

Visit talkAEP.alberta.ca today to give us your feedback on the Bighorn Country proposal.

Consultation will be open from November 23, 2018 to February 15, 2019. Over this period, we will gain your input on the future of the Bighorn area.

If we proceed, further consultation would be held to inform recreation and management planning.

http://talkAEP.alberta.ca

ISBN 978-1-4601-4219-6 November 2018

Provincial Parks Wildland Provincial Park

Provincial Recreation Areas

Public Land Use Zone (PLUZ)

Public Land Recreation Area (PLRA)

Visitor Experience Protected areas where the primary purpose is the conservation of nature. Offers wide range of nature-based recreational opportunities.

Protected areas where the primary purpose is the conservation of nature on large, healthy landscapes with opportunities for backcountry/wilderness recreation and experiencing nature in a relatively undisturbed state.

Primary purpose is the provision or support for nature-based outdoor recreation opportunities with some potential for local tourism and education opportunities.

Designated areas of public land established under the Public Lands Administration Regulation (PLAR) to assist in the management of natural resources and recreational land uses.

Designated areas of public land established under the Public Lands Administration Regulation (PLAR) to assist in the management of high intensity recreational use.

Permitted Uses

Hunting Limited to a minority of sites where clearly permitted – check regulations

Yes Limited to a minority of sites where clearly permitted – check regulations

Yes Yes

Recreational Off-highway Vehicles






Auto Access Camping Yes, in designated areas

No Yes, in designated areas


Yes

Backcountry Camping Yes, in designated areas only

Yes, undesignated only permitted if no closer than 1 km from designated area

Yes, in designated areas only


Yes

Commercial Trail Riding

Yes, via permits Yes, via permits Yes, via permits Yes, via permits Yes, via permits

Equestrian Use Yes, on designated trails



Yes Yes

Fishing Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Hiking Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Climbing/Caving Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Snowmobiling Yes, on designated trails and areas





Mountain Biking Yes, on designated trails



Yes Yes

Water Based Recreation

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Commercial Forestry No No No Yes Yes

Coal, Metallic and Industrial Minerals (Crown Owned)

No No No Yes Yes

Existing Petroleum and Natural Gas (Crown Owned)

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

New Petroleum and Natural Gas (Crown Owned)




Yes Yes

Freehold Minerals Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

Existing Sand and Gravel

Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes

New Sand and Gravel No No No Yes Yes

Existing grazing Yes via permits Yes via permits Yes, via permits Yes No

New grazing Subject to grazing suitability assessment

No Subject to grazing suitability assessment

Yes No

This information is intended as a general guide to some of the regulations under the Provincial Parks Act, Public Lands Act and a variety of other provincial and federal legislation that applies to land use activities in Alberta.

The GOA is committed to respecting the constitutionally protected rights of Indigenous Peoples.

Have your say at TalkAEP.ca

Bighorn Country Proposal

What do the designations mean for me?

For information and to provide input on these proposals, visit TalkAEP.alberta.ca©2018 Government of Alberta | Published: November 2018 | ISBN 978-1-4601-4222-6

To conserve the landscape and better manage social and economic activity in Bighorn Country, the government is proposing new, expanded or amended parks, recreation areas and public land use zones.

The proposed Bighorn Wildland Provincial Park overlaps with the current Job/Cline, Blackstone/Wapiabi, Upper Clearwater/Ram, and Panther Corners Public Land Use Zones, and includes the Douglas Fir and Scalp Creek Natural Areas.

Currently, the area within the Bighorn Wildland Provincial Park is managed under the Bighorn Access Management Plan, which outlines what is and what is not permitted in each public land use zone.

In the Job/Cline and Upper Clearwater/Ram Public Land Use Zones, Crown mineral development is prohibited. Petroleum and natural gas activities may be permitted in the Blackstone/Wapiabi and Panther Corners Public Land Use Zones under certain circumstances. Areas currently protected from industrial development will continue to be protected under the proposed wildland provincial park designation.

The wildland provincial park would play an important role in connecting established conservation areas on the eastern slopes, including Jasper and Banff National Parks and the White Goat and Siffleur Wilderness Areas, and provide significant headwater protection due to its large size and intact landscape. The large size, viewscapes and opportunities for backcountry experiences would provide an anchor for recreation and tourism planning. Park planning


would maintain the rustic, undeveloped character of the park and continue to permit high-quality experiences for those who want to venture beyond front country amenities.

The proposed management intent for the Bighorn Wildland Provincial Park is the conservation of biodiversity in an undeveloped natural landscape that retains the character that drew users to the area in the first place.

Opportunities would focus on providing wilderness-oriented and backcountry hunting, fishing and other recreation experiences, with few if any amenities. This experience would vary on whether visitors are accessing the north, west or south areas of the park.

In the north planning area, visitors would experience a remote backcountry landscape that offers a sense of solitude and remoteness. Travel through the north planning area would be a mix of motorized and non-motorized, with very few amenities, and visitors would need an excellent wilderness skill set to travel through the backcountry safely.

South of Pinto Lake

https://talkaep.alberta.ca


Type of Use Current State Proposed Management Direction

Existing Petroleum and Natural Gas Permitted Permitted

• Existing petroleum and natural gas agreements would be honoured in accordance with existing policy.

New Petroleum and Natural Gas Permitted Not Permitted

• New petroleum and natural gas agreements would be sold but with a “no surface access” addendum, in accordance with existing policy.

Metallic and Industrial Minerals (MIM) and Coal

Not Permitted Not Permitted

• There are no existing metallic and industrial minerals or coal agreements in this site.

Freehold Minerals Permitted Permitted

• Freehold minerals would be honoured.

Surface Materials (Sand and Gravel)

Permitted Not Permitted

• There are no existing commitments for this use in this site.

Commercial Forestry Not Permitted Not Permitted

• There are no existing commercial forestry tenure in this site.

Livestock Grazing Permitted in allocated areas only Existing grazing would be Permitted

• Existing grazing allocations would continue.

Registered Trapping Permitted Permitted

• Existing trap lines would be honoured.

• Trapping would adhere to the Wildlife Act, the Provincial Parks Act and their subsequent regulations and Policies.

• Motorized access permits and Firearms Discharge Permits (when required to carrying out trapping) may be required.

Proposed Management Direction

Resource Management

The west planning area, next to the David Thompson Provincial Park, would offer a wilderness experience that allows shorter visits with less backcountry travel. The settings would be less remote, although still wilderness-oriented, with a greater diversity of trails and trail users encountered. The west planning area’s proximity to the Highway 11 corridor would allow for a greater number of rustic amenities to support

activities such as backcountry camping and hiking that are closer to front country facilities in other parks and staging areas.

The south planning area would afford visitors a variety of different ways to experience the backcountry, including motorized and non-motorized travel. The landscape is very remote, and visitors could anticipate a sense of solitude.




Motorized Recreation (OHV) Permitted Permitted

• OHV use would continue to be permitted on designated trails.

• Winter snowmobile use would continue to be permitted in designated areas.

• Timing restrictions may be applied in alignment with current practices to manage environmental impacts (e.g. wet trail conditions).

Undesignated Backcountry Camping

Permitted Permitted

• Backcountry facility zones would be designated and include a combination of backcountry huts and backcountry campgrounds.

• Backcountry campgrounds would be located in existing, popular camping locations and include a series of tent pads, bear poles or lockers, toilet facilities and picnic tables.

• Undesignated (“random”) foot-access backcountry camping would be permitted throughout, except within one kilometre of designated backcountry campgrounds.

Auto Access Camping (front country, vehicle accessible)


• Automobiles/highway vehicles are not permitted in wildland provincial parks.

• Auto-accessible staging areas would be available in David Thompson and Ya Ha Tinda Provincial Parks and Hummingbird Provincial Recreation Area.

Equestrian Use Permitted Permitted

• Existing trail designations and timing restrictions would continue to apply.

• Wagon use on designated trails would be permitted. Timing restrictions may apply.

• Future planning would be undertaken to identify opportunites to improve the equestrian experience and sustainability.

Cycling / Mountain Biking Permitted Permitted

• Mountain biking would be permitted on all trails unless otherwise indicated by sign, notice or advisory.

Foot Access Permitted Permitted

• Foot access would be permitted on all trails and through the backcountry.

Recreational Unmanned Aerial Vehicles / Drones


• Use for research or commercial filming/photography may be permitted under the authority of the appropriate permit.

Hunting Permitted Permitted

• Provincial regulations apply.

• Hunting in Alberta

Fishing Permitted Permitted


• Alberta Regulations

Outfitting (Hunting)


• Targeted engagement would be undertaken to determine allowable hunting practices.

Nature-Based Recreation & Tourism Development


http://aep.alberta.ca/fish-wildlife/fishing-hunting-trapping/hunting-alberta/default.aspx

http://aep.alberta.ca/fish-wildlife/fishing-hunting-trapping/alberta-regulations/default.aspx


Guiding, Outfitting (non-Hunting) and Instructing

Permitted Permitted

• Would be supported through the existing permitting process for wildland provincial parks.

• Existing commitments for permits under the Public Land Administration Regulation (PLAR) would be honoured until expiry. Upon expiry permitting would transition to a Parks permitting process.

Helicopter Tours Permitted Permitted

• Existing helicopter tours would continue while additional parks management planning would be undertaken to assess impacts between the desired backcountry/ wilderness experience of this park and the frequency of helicopter landings.

Tourism Facilities and Visitor Attractions


• This type of development is not compatible with the experience and management intent of a wildland provincial park.




The area for the proposed David Thompson Provincial Park is currently managed under the Upper Clearwater/Ram and Kiska/Willson Public Land Use Zones. The area includes the Kootenay Plains Ecological Reserve, the Kootenay Plains Provincial Recreation Area (PRA) and the Thompson Creek PRA, which would be consolidated into the new provincial park. Current management varies from areas where commercial and industrial development is prohibited to sites where most kinds of activities are permitted.

The proposed provincial park would better protect important and unique ecoystems along the upper North Saskatchewan River, and provide a protected connection between the northern and southern part of the proposed Bighorn Wildland Provincial Park. Recreation planning and facility development would enhance regional tourism and provide visitor services at the gateway to the backcountry.

The proposed management intent for the David Thompson Provincial Park is the conservation of biodiversity, natural processes and cultural features, while accommodating a range of accessible low-impact, nature-based recreation, tourism and learning opportunities. Zoning for recreation and tourism facilities within the park, and the concentration of visitor services, would take into account existing recreation footprints and be dependent on the location and sensitivity of natural and cultural features.


The proposed park would offer a number of front country experiences to visitors traveling the Highway 11 corridor. This area is popular for camping and access to Abraham Lake. Park facilities would aim to accommodate current interests and experiences in a sustainable way. The Kootenay Plains Ecological Reserve would be placed in a special protection zone to maintain current levels of protection for its many natural and cultural features. Two O-Clock Creek and Cavalcade campgrounds and the Thompson Creek Provincial Recreation Area would become part of this park and would continue to serve as front country campgrounds.





• There are no existing petroleum and natural gas agreements in this site.


• New petroleum and natural gas agreements would be sold with a “no surface access” addendum, in accordance with existing policy.





• There are no freehold minerals in this site.



• There are currently two existing commitments for this use in this site that would be honoured.

• Once the gravel is removed, the sites would be reclaimed and the lands would be added to the park.

• No new additional activities would be permitted.



Livestock Grazing Not Permitted Not Permitted

• There are no existing livestock grazing commitments in this site.




• Motorized access permits and Firearms Discharge Permits (when required to carry out trapping) would be required.


Resource Management




Motorized Recreation (OHV) Not Permitted Not Permitted

• There are currently no designated trails for motorized recreation in this area.



• Backcountry camping would be allowed only in designated camping areas.


Permitted Permitted

• A proposed intent of the park is to facilitate front country and vehicle accessible facilities and staging opportunities.

• Existing auto access random camping would be replicated as far as possible through the creation of designated rustic camping areas.

» These sites would provide basic amenities and services such as washrooms and garbage collection.

» A permit would be required to camp in a rustic camping area.


• Equestrian use would be permitted on existing designated trails/staging areas.

• Timing restrictions may be applied to manage environmental impacts (e.g. wet trail conditions).


• Except for within the Kootenay Plains Special Protection Zone, mountain biking would be permitted on all trails unless otherwise indicated by sign, notice or advisory.

• In the Kootenay Plains Special Protection Zone, mountain biking would be permitted only on Glacier Trail and on Siffleur Falls Trail until it intersects Glacier Trail on the east side of Siffleur River bridge unless otherwise indicated by sign, notice or advisory.


• Foot access would be permitted throughout and on all trails.



• Use for research or commercial filming/photography may be considered under the authority of the appropriate permit.


• The existing Kootenay Plains road corridor wildlife sanctuary would apply.

• Hunters would require a Parks Discharge Permit that would outline site specific conditions and areas restrictions on discharge (e.g. around infrastructure).





Permitted Permitted

• Would be supported through the existing permitting process for provincial parks.







• Existing helicopter tours would continue while additional parks management planning is undertaken to assess impacts between the desired experience of this park and the frequency of any helicopter landings.


Permitted Permitted

• Tourism development opportunities appropriate to site management intent could be considered. These may include infrastructure such as camping, small-scale eco lodges and comfort camping which may be associated with visitor services facilities (such as food and beverage service). Planning would be undertaken to proactively identify these opportunities and identify allowable scale and size.

• Other attractions and services appropriate to site management intent could be considered upon further consultation. Planning would be undertaken to proactively identify any opportunities.




The area for the proposed North Saskatchewan River Provincial Park currently overlaps with the existing Kiska/Willson Public Land Use Zone and the Eastern Slopes Policy’s Critical Wildlife Zone. Current management permits a wide variety of commercial activities and industrial uses and development.

The proposed provincial park would help to protect Lower Foothills, Upper Foothills and Montane Natural Subregions. Although the total area of the Lower Foothills themes included in this proposed park are relatively small, they would be significant additions to Alberta’s protected areas network and would include the largest of the major river themes within protected areas anywhere in the province.

The proposed management intent for the North Saskatchewan River Provincial Park is the conservation of biodiversity and cultural features, while providing compatible nature-based recreation, tourism and education opportunities. Public access to the area is limited to river and trail access as there are no roads into the site.

Further recreation planning would focus on water-based activities and continued support for hiking, mountain biking and equestrian trail uses. These activities are dependent on, and compatible with, the protection of the natural values found here, and would be managed in a way that does not compromise the integrity of the natural environment.











• There are no metallic and industrial minerals or coal agreements in this site. Coal lease applications would be amended.





• Extraction of surface materials would not be permitted in this site.



Livestock Grazing Permitted in allocated areas only Existing grazing would be Permitted




• Trapping would adhere to the Wildlife Act, the Provincial Parks Act and their associated regulations and Policies.



Resource Management





• OHV use would be permitted on the existing designated trail only.


Permitted Permitted

• Backcountry camping would be allowed only in designated camping areas.

• Canoe accessible campgrounds are a possibility given the management intent and nature of access of this park.



• The intent in this site would not be to host vehicle accessible zones, but instead to direct facility development and upgrades to the adjacent Aylmer Provincial Recreation Area.


• Equestrian use would be permitted on all trails unless otherwise indicated by sign, notice or advisory.


• Tethering must be 100 metres away from water bodies.









• Hunters would require a Parks Discharge Permit that would outline site specific conditions and area restrictions on discharge (e.g. around infrastructure).





Permitted Permitted




• There are no existing commitments in this site.



• This type of development is not compatible with the classification and experience for this smaller, riparian area focused park.






The area for the proposed Ya Ha Tinda Provincial Park overlaps with the current Upper Clearwater/Ram and Kiska/Willson Public Land Use Zones. Current management varies from areas that prohibit commercial and industrial development to sites where most kinds of activities are permitted.

The area for the proposed park has an abundance of wildlife including grizzly bear, wolf, cougar, moose, deer and bighorn sheep and is a major winter range for elk. It is also the gateway to Ya Ha Tinda Ranch, which is owned and operated by Parks Canada and has contributed significantly to development of equestrian trails in the area.

The proposed management intent for the Ya Ha Tinda Provincial Park is conservation of ecosystems and biodiversity, while affording a diverse range of recreation opportunities.

Recreation opportunities in the park would be focused on equestrian use, while continuing to provide opportunities for hunting, guiding and outfitting. It would be a key access point to front country and backcountry camping and hiking in the proposed Bighorn Wildland Provincial Park. These recreation activities would be dependent on and compatible with maintaining natural values found in the area, and would be managed in a way that does not compromise the integrity of the natural environment.


















• There are no existing commercial forestry tenure in this park.

Livestock Grazing Permitted Existing grazing would be Permitted

• There are two existing allotments for this use in this proposed park that would be honoured.

• Grazing allotments would be administered in collaboration with Alberta Environment and Parks rangeland staff for this area.

• New grazing could be considered for ecological management purposes only.

Registered Trapping Permitted Permitted for existing commitments



• Motorized access permits and Firearms Discharge Permits (when required to carry out trapping) would be required.


Resource Management




Motorized Recreation (OHV) Not Permitted Permitted

• OHV use would be permitted on the designated trail.

• Timing restrictions may be applied in alignment with current practices to properly manage environment impacts (e.g. wet trail conditions).



• Backcountry camping would be permitted only in designated areas.

• The possibility of establishing a future designated backcountry campground at Eagle Lake would be explored.


Permitted Permitted

• Camping is permitted only in facility zones designated for this purpose (Eagle Creek Campground).


• Equestrian use would be permitted on existing designated trails/staging areas.

• Wagons would be permitted on designated trails only.










• The Ya Ha Tinda road corridor wildlife sanctuary would apply.

• Hunters would require a Parks Discharge Permit that would outline site specific conditions and areas restrictions on discharge (e.g. around infrastructure).





Permitted Permitted




• Existing helicopter tours would continue while additional parks management planning would be undertaken to assess impacts between the desired experience of this park and the frequency of any helicopter landings.






Not Permitted Permitted

• There is a limited developable area based on steep northern topography, ecological values such as riparian areas and wildlife movement, and the significant demand to retain public staging and develop formalized camping.

• Further detailed planning and assessment is required, which would be undertaken to proactively zone and identify feasible small-scale private sector tourism development opportunities.

• Attractions and services appropriate to site management and intent, site context and visitor preferences may be considered, with a focus on small-scale opportunities appropriate to the site.




The Bighorn Dam Provincial Recreation Area (PRA) would be formed within the Kiska/Willson Public Land Use Zone and overlap with the Eastern Slopes Policy’s Multiple Use Zone.

Current management intent within the Kiska/Willson Public Land Use Zone permits a wide variety of commercial activities and industrial uses and development.

Located west of Nordegg, the Bighorn Dam and Hydro Power Generating Station were constructed on the North Saskatchewan River between 1969 and 1972. Once the dam was completed, Abraham Lake was created, and is today the largest human-made lake in Alberta. Since the early 2000s recreational use of land directly below the dam has steadily increased. A typical weekend sees over 100 camping units and has reached as high as 500 units on a long weekend. These high levels of use are becoming unsustainable, resulting in damage to the environment and trails in the area.

The proposed provincial recreation area would better support and manage high levels of use in the region, minimize and mitigate damage to the environment and trail network, improve user experiences and address concerns about public access to the neighbouring Big Horn Reserve.


The proposed recreation area would provide new managed facilities offering a range of options, including many of the experiences that current users expect. This area would serve as a hub for visitors wanting to access neighbouring areas for recreation and tourism experiences. It would offer existing local businesses and tourism operators a market of overnight visitors to the area and the site would complement other local tourism services.










• There are no metallic or industrial minerals or coal agreements in this site. Coal lease applications would be amended.




Permitted Permitted for existing commitments








• Trapping would adhere to the Wildlife Act, the Provincial Parks Act and their associated regulations and policies.



Resource Management





• OHV use would be permitted on designated trails and staging areas.

• Timing restrictions may be applied consistent with current practice to manage environment impacts (e.g. wet trail conditions).

• As part of future parks management planning, trails planning would be undertaken to address specific areas of concern (such as stream crossings, erosion/braiding and undesignated trail use).



• This park would not facilitate backcountry camping experiences due to its size and levels of facility development.


Permitted Permitted

• The intent of this provincial recreation area is to facilitate front county and vehicle accessible facilities and OHV staging opportunities.

• Initially, areas where random camping currently occurs would be designated to make it allowable under parks legislation – these would be called rustic camping areas.

» These sites would provide basic amenities and services such as washrooms and garbage collection.

» A permit would be required to camp in a rustic camping area.

• Detailed planning, including First Nations consultation and public engagement, would occur to develop a facility development plan to enable investment in additional amenities and services.


• Equestrian use would be permitted on designated trails/staging areas.


• Tethering must be 100 metres away from water bodies.








Hunting Permitted Not Permitted

• If a hunter is carrying a firearm in a provincial park or provincial recreation areas, or hunting in land adjacent to a park where they are staying, the firearm shall be unloaded and disassembled or fully encased.

• Dressing, hanging and storing big game are not permitted without authorization from a conservation officer.









Permitted Permitted

• Would be supported through the existing permitting process.

• Existing commitments for permits under the Public Land Administration Regulation (PLAR) would be honoured until expiry. Upon expiry permitting would transition to Parks permitting process.


• Existing helicopter tours would continue while additional parks management planning would be undertaken to assess impacts between the desired experience of this park and the frequency of helicopter landings.


Permitted Permitted

• Planning would be undertaken to proactively identify opportunities for smaller scale tourism facility development that provides services that support the desired recreational experience at the site.

• Attractions and services appropriate with site management and intent, site context and visitor preferences may also be considered. Additional consultation would be required in these circumstances and planning would be undertaken to proactively identify opportunities.




The proposed Shunda Provincial Recreation Area would encompass and consolidate Fish Lake and Goldeye Lake Provincial Recreation Areas. Currently, the proposed expansion lands are managed within the existing Kiska/Willson Public Land Use Zone and as part of the Eastern Slopes Policy. Current management varies greatly, ranging from restrictions on industrial and commercial development within areas critical to wildlife to multiple use areas that permit development and industrial activity.

Expanding and consolidating this site would help strengthen and provide clarity and focus for providing recreation opportunities. It would support economic opportunities and unrealized tourism potential in a manner that is compatible with environmental values in the area.

The site’s proximity to Nordegg would support existing tourism development strategies by facilitating development opportunities such as lodging, accommodations and recreational activities.

Management intent for the proposed Shunda Provincial Recreation Area would focus on maintaining and enhancing existing facilities, while creating a mix of new public and private facilities and infrastructure to support recreation opportunities and unrealized tourism potential.


Shunda’s association with a tourism node means that the proposed site would be critical in complementing regional and local tourism developments, would act as an anchor for recreation investments, and would serve as a hub for visitors wanting to explore the other parks, recreation areas and public land use zones in the area.

Goldeye Lake










• Existing agreements would be canceled and compensated. Coal lease applications would be amended.












• Trapping would adhere to the Wildlife Act, the Provincial Parks Act and their associated regulations and policies.



Resource Management




Motorized Recreation (OHV) Not Permitted Not Permitted

• OHV use is incompatible with the size and proposed management intent of this site.



• Random camping is not permitted within one kilometre of a provincial recreation area or public land recreation area.

• This provincial recreation area would not facilitate backcountry camping experiences due to its size.


Permitted Permitted

• There is currently front country camping at Goldeye and Fish Lake Provincial Recreation Areas.

• The intent of the provincial recreation area is to facilitate front county and vehicle accessible facilities and staging opportunities.

• A mix of public and private comfort camping opportunities would be explored.

Equestrian Use Permitted Not Permitted

• Equestrian use would not be compatible with the recreation management intent of this site.









• If a hunter is carrying a firearm in a provincial park or provincial recreation areas, or hunting in land adjacent to a park where they are staying, the firearm shall be unloaded and disassembled or fully encased.






Permitted Permitted


• Existing commitments for permits under Public Land Administration Regulation (PLAR) would be honoured until expiry. Upon expiry permitting would transition to a Parks permitting process.


• Helicopter landing may be permitted.

• Additional planning would be undertaken to assess the impact between the desired visitor experience of this park and the frequency of helicopter landings.






Permitted Permitted

• Shunda Provincial Recreation Area is close to the community of Nordegg and Highway 11, which are part of the David Thompson Country Regional Tourism Strategy.

• Shunda Provincial Recreation Area would encourage development opportunities such as a four season resort, small/midscale ecolodge, hostels, comfort camping, and/or cabins, while fully serviced campgrounds or other significant developments would be possibilities.

• Detailed planning would occur, together with Clearwater County and the tourism industry, to proactively identify opportunities aligned with the management intent and values of the provincial recreation area, and aligned with the region’s broad tourism goals and offerings.

• Attractions and services appropriate to the site management and intent, site context and aligned with other tourism developments may be considered. Planning would be undertaken to proactively identify appropriate attractions and services.




The proposed Hummingbird Provincial Recreation Area (PRA) would include all lands previously included in the Hummingbird Public Land Recreation Area. These lands are currently managed within the Kiska/Willson Public Land Use Zone and the Eastern Slopes Policy.

The area would continue to be an important campground and staging area for a variety of users, providing access to the proposed Bighorn Wildland Provincial Park and the proposed Kiska-Willson Public Land Use Zone. It would also provide a critical access point to the backcountry experiences of the adjacent Bighorn Wildland Provincial Park as part of a comprehensive approach to management of this area.

The proposed management intent for Hummingbird PRA would focus on maintaining and enhancing the existing landscape, facilities and infrastructure to support compatible recreation uses. This designation would help strengthen and provide a consistent approach to stewardship of existing natural values in the area in perpetuity. Planning would be undertaken to identify opportunities for smaller scale tourism facility development that would support enhanced experiences for existing activities.















Permitted Existing Permitted

• There is an existing commitment for this use in this proposed park which would be honoured.

• Once the gravel is removed, the site would be reclaimed and the land would be added to the park. No new additional activities would be permitted.





Registered Trapping Not Permitted Not Permitted

• No trapping is occurring within proposed site boundaries.

• Staging by trappers to access traplines on surrounding lands would continue.


Resource Management





• OHV use would be permitted on designated trails and staging areas.

• Timing restrictions may be applied consistent with current practice to manage environmental impacts (e.g. wet trail conditions).

• As part of future parks management planning, trails planning would be undertaken to address specific areas of concern (such as stream crossings, erosion/braiding and undesignated trail use).



• The park is too small to facilitate backcountry camping experiences.

• Designated rustic camping areas may be established if there is sufficient demand.


Permitted Permitted

• The intent of this provincial recreation area is to facilitate front county and vehicle accessible facilities and staging opportunities including auto access camping.


• Equestrian use would be permitted on designated trails.


• Tethering must be 100 metres away from water bodies unless otherwise approved.








Hunting Not Permitted Not Permitted

• If a hunter is carrying a firearm in a provincial park or provincial recreation area, or hunting in land adjacent to a park where they are staying, the firearm shall be unloaded and disassembled or fully encased.






Permitted Permitted










Not Permitted Permitted

• Planning would be undertaken to proactively identify opportunities for smaller scale tourism facility development. This may include developments such as rustic fixed roof accommodations (wall tents and cabins) and services that would support enhanced experiences for existing OHV and equestrian use.

• Visitor attractions development is not viewed as feasible at this point in time but could revisited and considered in future planning or further informed through consultation.




The area for the proposed Snow Creek Provincial Recreation Area currently overlaps the Kiska/Willson Public Land Use Zone and the Eastern Slopes Policy’s Multiple Use Zone. Current management is for a variety of recreation and tourism activities and permits commercial and industrial development.

The proposed minor expansion of this site would contribute to the comprehensive recreation management vision for this area by serving as a focal point to develop winter tourism activity, including the potential for development of a Nordic trail system.

Management intent for the Snow Creek Provincial Recreation Area would focus on maintaining and providing recreation opportunities and attractions that support conservation, economic opportunities and unrealized tourism potential in the region.

Facility and services development in the proposed provincial recreation area would offer additional regional attractions that complement nature-based tourism development and marketing, which would be important to support year-round tourism and further enhance the quality of life for local residents.























• Trapping would adhere to the Wildlife Act, the Provincial Parks Act and their associated regulations and policies. Motorized access permits and Firearms Discharge Permits (when required to carrying out trapping) may be required.


Resource Management





• OHV use would be permitted on designated trails.



• This park would not facilitate backcountry camping experiences due to its size and levels of facility development.


Permitted Permitted

• The intent of the site is to facilitate front country and vehicle accessible facilities and staging opportunities.

Equestrian Use Permitted Not Permitted

• Equestrian use would not be compatible with the recreation management intent of this site.









• If a hunter is carrying a firearm in a provincial park or provincial recreation area, or hunting in land adjacent to a park where they are staying, the firearm shall be unloaded and disassembled or fully encased.






Permitted Permitted






Permitted Permitted

• Smaller scale opportunities may exist for tourism facility development such as campgrounds and fixed roof accommodations (wall tents, cabins or a small scale eco lodge). Planning would be undertaken to identify opportunities and determine appropriate size and scale.

• Attractions and services appropriate to the site management and intent, site context and visitor preferences may be considered. Planning would be undertaken to proactively identify these opportunities, for example Nordic ski trails, associated services, facilities and year-round accommodations.






The current Kiska/Willson Public Land Use Zone primarily overlaps the General Recreation and Multiple Use zonation from the Eastern Slopes Policy with management guidance through the Bighorn Access Management Plan. Current management is for a wide range of activities, including off-highway vehicle and snowmobile use on designated trails, lodging, canoeing, kayaking and jet boating on the North Saskatchewan and Red Deer rivers, equestrian trail riding, hiking, mountain biking, dog sledding, trapping and hunting, ice climbing, fishing, and extensive camping, all integrated with industrial operations.

Management of the recreation trail network within the Kiska/Willson Public Land Use Zone has been gradual, adaptive, and supported by stakeholder engagement and leadership. Sustainable trail locations, densities, activity types and timing restrictions have been established to balance competing demands and considerations.

The current management approach for this public land use zone would continue with some small boundary adjustments in relation to the new parks and protected areas. This public land use zone would continue to support a primary management intent of sustainable outdoor recreation and tourism experiences that support long-term environmental


protection. This includes access to backcountry recreation activities and nature-based tourism experiences. Management of proposed amendments to the Kiska/Willson Public Land Use Zone would be reviewed and updated as needed.

The northern portion of the public land use zone would continue to allow appropriate commercial recreation activities and nature-based tourism opportunities. This may include development of trails, staging areas, campgrounds, fixed roof accommodation and other private sector led tourism-based activities, services and infrastructure.

The management intent of the southeastern part of the public land use zone is to encourage access to low-impact backcountry outdoor recreation activities and nature-based tourism experiences while supporting conservation of biodiversity, now and for generations to come.




Petroleum and Natural Gas Permitted Permitted



Permitted Permitted





Permitted Permitted



• There are no existing commercial forestry tenure in this public land use zone.

Livestock Grazing Permitted Permitted






Resource Management






• OHV use would be permitted on designated trails and in designated areas.



Permitted Permitted

• Undesignated backcountry camping would be permitted throughout the public land use zone, except within one kilometre of designated public land recreation areas and provincial recreation areas.

• Restrictions may be applied consistent with current practice to manage environmental impacts, public safety and existing dispositions.


Permitted Permitted

• Existing auto access to undesignated camping would be permitted on existing clearings/trails up to 75 metres beyond Highway 11 and 734 (Forestry Trunk Road).


• Existing auto access rustic camping in designated locations would continue.


• Existing trail designations and timing restrictions would continue to apply.

• Public trails would continue to be used by equestrian commercial operators, subject to provincial regulations.

• Grazing or tethering must be at least 100 metres away from lakeshores, except where permitted by a sign or notice.





Unmanned Aerial Vehicles / Drones Permitted Permitted

• Federal regulations apply.

• Government of Canada – Flying Your Drone Safely and Legally








Permitted Permitted




https://www.tc.gc.ca/en/services/aviation/drone-safety/flying-drone-safely-legally.html






• Helicopters are not permitted to land within 200 metres of a lakeshore without an access permit.

• Canadian Aviation Regulations (SOR/96-433)


Permitted Permitted

• Would be supported through the existing approval process for public land

• Detailed planning would occur, together with municipalities and the tourism industry, to proactively identify opportunities that are aligned with the management intent and values of the public land use zone, and aligned with the region’s broad recreation and tourism goals and offerings. This includes the opportunities identified in the three existing tourism development nodes.


https://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/acts-regulations/regulations-sor96-433.htm



The proposed West Country Public Land Use Zone would be established on public land to the east of the Bighorn Backcountry. Currently, recreational activities in the area are varied and include hiking, cycling, skiing, camping, water-based activities, passive activities such as nature enjoyment and birdwatching, and motorized recreation. The demand for and use of recreational activities, features and settings is increasing as Alberta’s population grows and existing infrastructure and services fall short of demand.

The intent of the new public land use zone is that current uses would continue with collaboration between users to better integrate recreational activities with other uses. It would provide greater authority to manage recreation and priority issues to ensure all existing activities are sustainable, as this is an important land base that supports the local economy and serves as a significant recreational hub.

All land users share responsibility for land management and will play a role in developing future land use plans over a multi-year process. The cumulative impacts of our recreational and industrial activities have posed increasing challenges to sustainable land management. As this is a new designation, government wants to take some time to hear perspectives on how this area can best be managed into the future and build a plan that is driven by local voices.


To complement and support a new public land use zone, it is proposed that the area be divided into four priority subregional recreation planning areas: Brazeau, Prairie Creek, James River and Nordegg River.

Recreation planning would provide an opportunity to identify current use patterns and areas of conflict in order to maintain appropriate recreational experiences, identify new opportunities and ensure continued protection of environmental values.

Gathering stakeholder and community input will help each management plan balance the needs of the public, provide a spectrum of recreation opportunities, minimize impacts on the area’s ecology and environment, and respect the continued exercise of constitutionally protected Treaty rights and traditional uses. Recreation planning may include new trails, staging areas and other infrastructure that provides opportunities for public and commercial outdoor recreation activities and nature-based tourism experiences. Local municipalities,

Forestry Trunk Road - Ram River




Petroleum and Natural Gas Permitted Permitted



Permitted Permitted





Permitted Permitted


Commercial Forestry Permitted Permitted


Grazing Permitted Permitted


• Recreation Access Legislation




Current and Proposed Uses

Resource Management

First Nations and user groups will be engaged directly in the planning process to ensure local perspectives shape land use plans.

All trails and camping areas would remain open in the new public land use zone. Through ongoing engagement and recreation management planning we will work together to thoughtfully manage impacts of recreation on other land uses and the

environment. The authority to temporarily close trails or areas of public land in the interest of public safety or environmental risk would be maintained, as is the current practice.


http://aep.alberta.ca/recreation-public-use/recreation-on-agricultural-public-land/recreational-access-legislation.aspx





• OHV use would be permitted on designated trails and in designated areas.



Permitted Permitted

• Undesignated backcountry camping would be permitted throughout the public land use zone, except within one kilometre of designated public land recreation areas and provincial recreation areas.



Permitted Permitted

• Access to rustic camping would continue.



• Equestrian use would be permitted on and off designated trails, unless otherwise indicated by sign or notice.

• Public trails would continue to be used by equestrian commercial operators, subject to provincial regulations.

• Grazing or tethering must be at least 100 metres away from lakeshores, except where permitted by a sign of notice.





Unmanned Aerial Vehicles / Drones Permitted Permitted


• Government of Canada – Flying Your Drone Safely and Legally








Permitted Permitted




• Helicopters are not permitted to land within 200 metres of a lakeshore without an access permit.

• Canadian Aviation Regulations (SOR/96-433)



https://www.tc.gc.ca/en/services/aviation/drone-safety/flying-drone-safely-legally.html



https://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/acts-regulations/regulations-sor96-433.htm



Permitted Permitted

• Would be supported through the existing approval process for public land.

• Detailed planning would occur, together with municipalities and the tourism industry to proactively identify opportunities that are aligned with the management intent and values of the public land use zone, and aligned with the region’s broad recreation and tourism goals and offerings. This includes the opportunities identified in the Saunders/Alexo Tourism Node.


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