National Capital Commission
Canada

Gatineau Park is an outstanding feature of Canada’s Capital Region. It is the NCC’s largest single property and is one of the oldest for which the NCC is responsible today. Most large natural parks in Canada belong either to the provinces or to Parks Canada (a federal body). Gatineau Park is the only federal park that does not belong to Parks Canada. It is managed by the NCC under the National Capital Act as an important contributor to the symbolism of the Capital.

Management of the Park is guided by the 2005 Gatineau Park Master Plan. The central management principle is to preserve the health and integrity of the Park for future generations while offering environmentally respectful recreational experiences to the public.

Yesterday

The highlands northwest of Ottawa, in Quebec, were partially settled in the late 19th century, but the thin, rocky soil of the Canadian Shield was difficult to farm. In time, the economy diversified into forestry and mining (molybdenum and mica), and small communities such as Wakefield were established. As early as 1903, the Ottawa Improvement Commission (predecessor of the NCC, 1899–1927) published its first plan for the region (the Todd Report), which proposed that a park be created north of Ottawa to preserve some of the great Canadian wilderness as part of the Capital. The Federal District Commission (predecessor of the NCC, 1927–1958) repeated this plan. However, the First World War and the Depression slowed the process.

Finally, in the 1930s, when loggers were harvesting the forests of the Gatineau Hills, local residents, summer cottagers and weekend skiers got together and encouraged the government to take action. A recent study looks at the role of government and citizens in the creation of Gatineau Park between 1903 and 1956. In 1938, the first few parcels of land were purchased by the Federal District Commission for the creation of a new park.

Today

Gatineau Park is an important nature preserve, measuring 36,131 hectares and anchored to the Capital – the fourth-largest urban community in Canada. It is home to over 100 endangered plant species, the largest concentration of rare species in Quebec. The NCC protects these rare plants in accordance with federal and provincial environmental regulations and international conventions. The Park offers important educational and research opportunities, and managing and protecting natural resources is a key responsibility of Park managers.

The Park also features rich cultural, historical and recreational attractions such as Mackenzie King Estate and the extensive trail system (nearly 200 km). It is linked to the urban Capital by beautiful parkways and recreational pathways (for walkers, hikers, cyclists and in-line skaters) and managing environmentally respectful recreation is also an important responsibility. With many heritage treasures within Gatineau Park, managing natural and cultural heritage is an important activity.

Tomorrow

Gatineau Park is a precious legacy of the natural world and of early conservation efforts in the Capital region. Managed under the Plan for Canada’s Capital (1999) and the 2005 Gatineau Park Master Plan, it will be protected as a Capital symbol for the enjoyment of future generations. In years to come, as the vital diversity of plants and animals comes under increasing pressure, even more effort will be made to protect this Park and preserve its rich biodiversity. To accomplish this, a natural resources conservation plan will be prepared (2005-2008) to develop an action plan to ensure the long-term protection of the Park.

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Modified: Tuesday March 21, 2006
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