A primer on the site’s management planning process

On behalf of the people of Canada, we protect and present nationally significant examples of Canada’s natural and cultural heritage and foster public understanding, appreciation and enjoyment in ways that ensure their ecological and commemorative integrity for present and future generations.

What is a Parks Canada management plan?

A management plan, prepared in consultation with Canadians, is the main public accountability document for national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas. It is the road map that guides Parks Canada’s work to protect natural and cultural resources, to facilitate visitor experiences and learning opportunities, and to collaborate with other organizations and Indigenous partners on common interests. The plan sets out a long-term vision for a site, as well as a strategic direction to guide decision-making by site managers. Management plans also help Parks Canada make sound decisions about where to invest financial and human resources.

Plan review and implementation process

• Management plan review (two years) and implementation (eight years) is a continuous cycle of engagement, decision-making, evaluating and reporting.
• An internal assessment (State of the Site Assessment) is prepared two years before a new plan is due, to set the stage for the management plan review.
• Parks Canada sets the scope of the plan based on the State of the Site Assessments, an evaluation of the current management plan, the Agency’s corporate priorities, and other factors.
• Parks Canada will provide opportunities for Indigenous people, partners and stakeholders, and the public to be involved as the plan is developed.
• The final Gulf of Georgia Cannery management plan is approved by the President & Chief Executive Officer, Parks Canada Agency.
• Each park and site reports annually on progress in implementing its management plan.
• Currently we are in the consultation phase of the management planning cycle.