predator habitat, particularly in areas where elk are abundant; continue research on the
predator-prey relationship between wolves and elk; continue measures to reduce wildlife
mortality on the Trans-Canada Highway; restore and maintain secure, wildlife movement
corridors; adopt measures that allow wildlife to move safely across the Highway and
railway.
Human use management could include: limiting the number of commercial
activities offered in the backcountry; quotas on popular trails, relocating trails and
campgrounds when necessary, expanding public transportation to reduce traffic and the
number of wildlife killed on the road, removing trail signs and trail head facilities to
reduce traffic on sensitive, and applying restrictions such as temporary closures when
necessary for public safety or to protect sensitive natural or cultural resources.
Public information campaigns are also important. All trails should include
information on the proper disposal of human waste, how to avoid bears, the location of
environmentally sensitive areas, and the basic rules of trail etiquette to protect the land
and wildlife. Park newsletters and maps could highlight ecologically sensitive areas, and
caution people to be aware of their impact.
Ultimately these recommendations require increasing government regulations of
the park, which have met with resistance in the past. Unfortunately stakeholder conflict,
coupled with the need for tourist revenue, suggests that these recommendations would be
met with significant resistance. However, given the increasing awareness of the threats
to our national parks, perhaps it is merely a matter of time before the nation realizes that
we have left ourselves with little choice than to make such sacrifices.
Conclusion
Convention