Strategic Environmental Assessment Public Statements for Plans Policies and Programs

Parks Canada Corporate Plan 2007/08-2011/12

A strategic environmental assessment (SEA) was completed for the Parks Canada Agency Corporate Plan 2007-08-2011-12, in accordance with the Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals. The purpose of a SEA is to incorporate environmental considerations into the development of public policies, plans, and program proposals to support decision-making that is environmentally sound.

Important positive environmental effects of this plan include: protection of ecosystems in unrepresented areas of Canada; continued and improved protection of the environment in protected heritage areas currently administered by the Agency, including protection of species at risk, ecological monitoring, active management, restoration, and reduction of pollution and greenhouse gas emissions; improved better protection of the greater ecosystems surrounding parks and sites through improved communication and engagement of local and aboriginal communities; and increased environmental stewardship though increased involvement and education of park visitors.

Strategic environmental assessment and project-level environmental assessment may be required for certain projects, plans, programs or policies that develop from this corporate plan. These environmental assessments will consider mitigation measures to reduce or eliminate residual negative environmental effects.

Appropriate visitor use/activities will be determined through the use of the proposed Recreational Activities Framework and the use of the Code of Ethics and Guidelines for Sustainable Tourism for Canada. Management planning will determine appropriate indicators, zoning, monitoring, etc. to reduce stressors on the park/site.

The Parks Canada Corporate Plan will not result in any significant net negative environmental effects.