ecosystem protection
These sections of the National Parks Act, and the federal legislation relating to the town
of Banff demonstrate the significant control on the part of the federal government over local
tourism development in the town of Banff. Furthermore, it also indicates the degree to which
the Canadian government is concerned about protecting the environment at the expense of
economic development. This would have significant repercussion not only the town which is at
risk of losing revenue, but also the province of Alberta, and Canada as a whole.
In Canada there have been a few recent trends regarding parks management. First, the
recognition that parks are about ecosystems, not just individual species. A movement towards
a pro-active approach rather than a hands-on approach. And seeing parks not as stand-alone
conservation areas, but as part of a larger ecosystem that extends beyond the park boundaries
and where human activities are an integral part.
While the mandates outlined above are vital for the long term health of Canada’s
national parks, government budget constraints have created pressure for parks to generate
revenue to pay for basic operations, visitor services and conservation initiatives. Given the
constraints on national parks, the primary options for generating revenue include increasing
entrance fees and expanding commercial ventures in the park such as retail stores and
adventure sports, which may be at odds with the commitment to sustainable development
ideals, disrupt the ecosystem and detract from the wilderness setting. Scientific research has
demonstrated significant negative effects resulting from tourist activities such as hiking, skiing,
and golf. These negative repercussions include threats to wildlife and habitat, soil erosion,
9
Convention