Canadian National Parks

The Canadian National Parks system encompasses over forty protected areas, including National Parks, National Park Reserves and National Marine Conservation Areas.

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The goal of the national park system is to create a system of protected areas which represent all the distinct natural regions of the country. Parks Canada - the governing body for the system - has developed a system plan, identifying 39 different regions it aims to represent. As of 2005, Parks Canada reports that the system is over 60% complete. Canada's parks are managed to first protect the ecological integrity of the park, and secondarily to allow the public to explore, learn about and enjoy Canada's natural spaces.

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Parks which are referred to as National Park Reserves will become National Parks once outstanding land claim issues have been resolved. Parks with this designation include Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Kluane National Park Reserve and Nahanni National Park Reserve.

Related Topics:
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Kluane National Park Reserve - Nahanni National Park Reserve

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National Marine Conservation Areas (NMCAs) are a relatively new addition to the park system. These areas have a different mandate than their terrestrial counterparts. They are designed for sustainable use, although they usually also contain areas designed to protect ecological integrity. Canada's two NMCA's are found in Ontario and Quebec.

Related Topics:
National Marine Conservation Areas - Ecological integrity - Ontario - Quebec

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