New “ecopassages” installed at Bruce Peninsula National Park
News Release
Wildlife crossings help reduce road mortality for turtles, snakes and small animals
September 26, 2017 Tobermory, Ontario Parks Canada Agency
In managing national parks, Parks Canada maintains or restores ecological integrity, and provides Canadians with opportunities to discover and enjoy them.
The Government of Canada is investing over $870,000 in federal infrastructure funding for a conservation initiative to protect wildlife in Bruce Peninsula National Park. The announcement was made today by the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Catherine McKenna.
This funding will enable the installation of ecopassages and exclusion fencing to help reduce reptile and amphibian mortality rates in the Singing Sands area of the park, resulting in safer and greater movement for species at risk, such as the Snapping Turtle and the Massasauga rattlesnake. Road mortality has a direct impact on population size and restricts species movement, which reduces opportunities for feeding and reproduction.
These projects are being managed in partnership with the Saugeen Ojibway Nation and the Municipality of Northern Bruce Peninsula.
Similar work was recently completed on Cyprus Lake and Emmett Lake roads, where Parks Canada installed five new ecopassage tunnels in partnership with Eco-Kare International and the Bruce Peninsula District School Outers group. Artificial turtle nesting mounds were also constructed near the ecopassages to provide a safer option for Snapping Turtles, who often lay their eggs in the gravel along the edge of roadways. Helping to ensure turtles reach maturity and safely lay eggs will have a positive impact on turtle populations within the park.
To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, the Government of Canada is very pleased to offer free admission to Parks Canada places, and, thanks to the recent installation of ecopassages, wildlife in the area have also enjoyed their ‘free pass’ this summer.
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Quotes
“Our government is committed to preserving our national parks and contributing to the recovery of species-at-risk. I am so proud that Parks Canada is working with local First Nations and communities across Canada to protect wildlife. These new “ecopassages” in Bruce Peninsula National Park are an excellent example of that work to ensure the recovery of some of this country’s most endangered and threatened species.”
The Honourable Catherine McKenna,
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada
Quick Facts
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The two national parks in the Bruce Peninsula are home to over 30 species at risk, including many of global conservation concern.
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Bruce Peninsula National Park is a great place to see conservation at work. Visitors who plan their travel (www.pc.gc.ca/bruce) in advance will have a better experience. Find out more about the best times to visit at the Bruce Peninsula National Park website, or download the NEW Parks Canada Mobile App, for a list of hidden gems and other unique and memorable ways to celebrate Canada 150. The fall shoulder season is one of the best times for travellers to be assured of accessing and enjoying the park – with plenty of activities, festivals and availability.
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Parks Canada is investing an unprecedented $3 billion dollars over five years to support infrastructure work to heritage, tourism, waterway and highway assets located within national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas across Canada. This investment supports conservation efforts that will ensure these cherished places are protected and secured for the future.
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Contacts
Marie-Pascale Des Rosiers
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change
613-462-5473
marie-pascale.desrosiers@canada.ca
Media Relations
Parks Canada Agency
855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca
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