Near, far, wherever they are.

Your park is not going anywhere.

You may have heard that Alberta parks will be sold off and developed for industry. Nothing could be further from the truth. All current park sites will remain fully protected, free from industrial development. Wetlands, watersheds, and wildlife in these important natural habitats will continue to thrive. These areas belong to all Albertans and it’s going to stay that way.

But it might get a helping hand.

Since 1932, Alberta has partnered with community groups to manage provincial parks and recreation areas from Fort McMurray to Fort Macleod and everywhere in between. Alberta Environment and Parks is continuing to work with our parks partners, including Indigenous groups and grassroots organizations who know the land best. These partnerships protect access while controlling costs for Alberta taxpayers.

And maybe even a few upgrades.

Far from closing parks down, Alberta Environment and Parks is spending $43 million improving trails and pathways and upgrading day-use facilities and campsites to make your recreation experience even better. Changes to the online portal will make it easier to get permits for things like research, photography, and special events. This is not only good for the land, but good for the economy, too.

Because you deserve to enjoy your land.

Albertans have fostered a common connection to the land for hundreds of years. It is a part of who we are and we all have a shared interest in protecting and sustaining our province. Doing so in tough economic times is not easy. But those hiking day-trips, annual ice-fishing weekends, and nights under the stars are so worth it. That’s why these sites will continue to be protected and remain accessible for you to enjoy.

Let us know what you think

First Name

Last Name

Postal Code

Do you believe that all parks and public lands need to be operated by the government in all circumstances?

Yes, all parks should always be operated directly by the government and other options should not be evaluated. No, in unique circumstances, such as very remote areas, the government should consider partnering with local community, non-profit or indigenous groups to operate parks.

Do you believe partnering with community groups to operate parks and public lands is a reasonable way for the government to save money?

Yes, so long as access is not affected, operating partnerships are a good option to save money. No, the government should assume the full cost of operating parks.

Yes, keep me up to date on this initiative and others.

How many parks are for sale?

None.

Can I still go camping & fishing?

You bet.

Who is actually going to own Alberta parks?

You.

So parks aren’t going to be sold and developed?

Nope!

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Myth: 37% of parks in Alberta will be removed from the system.

Fact: The Alberta Parks system has been assessed, and 164 sites have been proposed for potential partnerships. These sites can be run by municipalities, community groups, Indigenous groups, and not-for-profits. Alberta's parks remain protected under the jurisdiction of Alberta Environment and Parks.

Myth: These changes will result in lost recreation opportunities.

Fact: Parks will remain accessible for recreation and enjoyment.

Myth: Parks will have their protected area status removed

Fact: All 164 locations remain protected under the ownership and jurisdiction of Alberta Environment and Parks.

Myth: Partnerships will lead to for-profit development.

Fact: Partnerships have been an essential part of our provincial parks system for nearly 90 years. Our partners are dedicated conservation organizations like the Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Parks Association. Partners help enhance visitor experience, connect us to nature, and conserve our natural and cultural heritage.

Myth: There’s no evidence that partnerships lead to cost savings.

Fact: Partnerships do result in cost savings, but that is not their primary purpose. Non-profit parks societies and other partners provide exceptional value to the conservation and visitor experience at their sites.

Myth: This government does not support conservation.

Fact: Over $100 million has been committed by this government to support parks and conservation. Alberta Environment and Parks is supporting conservation projects in every corner of the province.

Myth: There is no precedent for parks partnerships.

Fact: Partners have been essential to our parks system since 1932. The UCP platform committed to "strengthen partnerships with non-profit park societies across Alberta."

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This website is an initiative by the United Conservative Party Caucus.

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