1 STRENGTHENING THE CONSERVATION OF BIODIVERSITY: REFORMING ONTARIO=S PROVINCIAL PARKS ACT

The management of existing provincial parks in Ontario, and the creation of new ones, is legislatively governed by the Provincial Parks Act. This evaluation of park legislation assesses its capability of managing complex ecological realities, fostering adequate planning, ensuring proper implementation, and generating public involvement. The increasing size of the parks system and the biological diversity of Ontario represent the ideas of change and complexity in resource and environmental management. This paper suggests that the Provincial Parks Act must be reformed to address these changes and complexities. The mandate and legislative framework of the parks system must be redesigned to promote a proactive approach in conserving the biodiversity of Ontario. Reform is needed in the planning of parks and their management. Public participation and accountability must also be assured. Similar reform in the management of protected areas has occurred at the level of the federal parks system. This paper discusses important proposals for legislative change to Ontario=s Provincial Parks Act, specifically:(i) the recognition of biodiversity conservation as a primary goal; (ii) the need for management plans for each park; and (iii) the requirement for an open consultative planning process