Plans and policies

Management Statement 2020

Introduction and Overview

The Parks Canada Agency manages one of the finest and most extensive systems of protected natural and historic areas in the world. The Agency’s mandate is to protect and present these places for the benefit and enjoyment of current and future generations. This management statement outlines Parks Canada’s management approach and objectives for Fort Pelly National Historic Site.

Fort Pelly National Historic Site of Canada was designated a national historic site in 1953 to commemorate the central role that the post played in the North West fur trade and the economic, social and political development of Western Canada. The post was constructed by the Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC) in its present location in 1856, replacing the first Fort Pelly that was built in 1824 on the Assiniboine River but was moved to higher ground due to flooding. From its inception, Fort Pelly served as the headquarters for the Swan River District but later expanded its economic and supply base to smaller posts by engaging in agriculture, manufacturing, and lumbering. Although activities at the post decreased after the district headquarters was transferred to Fort Ellice, an active trade continued at Fort Pelly due to the close proximity of First Nations reserves, homesteaders, and the nearby establishment of the North West Mounted Police headquarters at Fort Livingstone. Following the establishment of the CPR line south of Fort Pelly, trade gradually diminished, eventually resulting in the abandonment of the post by the HBC in 1912.

Management Approach

Parks Canada will continue to manage Fort Pelly National Historic Site as an unstaffed protected area that provides basic non-personal interpretation to a small number of visitors.

The aim of this approach is dedicated to preserving the historic significance of Fort Pelly in the fur trade of Western Canada. Parks Canada will continue to further public knowledge, appreciation, and visitation of the historic site through the development of digital media products and the fostering of partnerships with First Nations and Métis groups, regional stakeholders, and heritage organizations. This management approach acknowledges the location of the Fort Pelly National Historic Site within traditional Treaty 4 territory and the role that First Nations and the Métis played in the history of post.

Management Objectives

Collaboration with others: The history and significance of Fort Pelly National Historic Site are communicated effectively through the collaborative efforts of Parks Canada and other interested parties in the region and province, including First Nations and Métis groups and organizations.

Resource conservation: The cultural and natural resources on the site, including the in situ archaeological resources and habitat for species at risk, are protected and are not under threat.

Site maintenance: Periodic site visits conducted by Parks Canada staff ensure that the property is maintained in good condition to support the modest level of visitor use and the protection of in situ resources.

Public understanding and appreciation: Key messages reflect accurately the cultural significance of the site and are delivered through on-site interpretation, establishing connections with other related sites, and through digital media.