Reports

Parks Canada's Departmental Performance Report 2014-15

Supplementary Information Tables

Parks Canada Agency’s 2014-15 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy

1. Overview of the Federal Government's Approach to Sustainable Development

The Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) 2013–16 presents the Government of Canada's sustainable development activities, as required by the Federal Sustainable Development Act. In keeping with the objectives of the Act to make environmental decision making more transparent and accountable to Parliament, Parks Canada supports the implementation of the FSDS through the activities in this supplementary information table.

This Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy presents the results for Theme I – Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality, Theme III – Protecting Nature and Canadians, and Theme IV – Shrinking the Environmental Footprint – Beginning with Government.

2. Themes I to III: Department- and Agency-Led Targets

FSDS Goal	FSDS Performance Indicator	FSDS Target	FSDS Performance Status
Goal 4: Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians – Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come.	Ecological Integrity of national parks	Target 4.4: Improving the Health of National Parks – Improve the condition of at least one ecological integrity indicator in 20 national parks by 2015	In 2014-15, through its Conservation and Restoration Program, Parks Canada continued to invest in a diverse range of priority ecological restoration projects in national parks. This on-going work has led to improvements to ecological integrity indicators, and by March 2015, Parks Canada had reached the set target of 20 national parks with at least one improved ecological integrity indicator.

3. Themes I to III: Implementation Strategies

Parks Canada has one implementation strategy under Theme I – Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality and seven implementation strategies under Theme III – Protecting Nature and Canadians.

Theme I: Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality

Target 1.2: Climate Change Adaptation

Implementation Strategy
1.2.9: Improve understanding of climate-driven ecological change in Canada’s North by using a combination of remote sensing techniques and working with park cooperative management boards to assess how ecological integrity and traditional land use may be affected by climate-driven changes in northern national parks.
Link to FSDS 2013-16 Goals and Targets
Theme I: Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality
Goal 1: Climate Change – In order to mitigate the effects of climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emission levels and adapt to unavoidable impacts.
Target 1.2: Climate Change Adaptation: Facilitate reduced vulnerability of individuals, communities, regions and economic sectors to the impacts of climate change through the development and provision of information and tools.
Link to Parks Canada Program Alignment Architecture
Strategic Outcome: Canadians have a strong sense of connection to their national parks, national historic sites, heritage canals and national marine conservation areas and these protected places are experienced in ways that leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
Program 1.2: Heritage Places Conservation
Sub Program 1.2.1: National Park Conservation
Description of the Implementation Strategy
Parks Canada contributes to the understanding of climate-driven ecological change in Canada's North by consulting with park co-operative management boards, conducting process-based ecosystem mapping, and completing scenarios modeling and reporting to help communities understand the risks to important country food, recognize the need for adaptation, and discuss options for action. Parks Canada also links key drivers to changing ecosystem composition and structure and discusses how these changes might impact other ecosystem components (such as caribou and other species) and the ecological integrity of parks. This activity supports communities in assessing the risks as well as opportunities arising from climate change, and provides them with options for adapting.
Performance Indicator
Ecotype mapping for Vuntut, Tuktut Nogait and Auyuittuq National Parks is completed.
Performance Results for 2014-15
Through the implementation of the Understanding Climate-Driven Ecological Change in Canada’s North Program, Parks Canada applied Inuit knowledge and advanced spatial modelling using remote sensing techniques to develop detailed ecological maps and predict how plants and animals may respond to climate change. Building on completed detailed mapping for seven northern national parks, maps for three additional national parks (Vuntut, Tuktut Nogait and Auyuittuq) were added to the program in 2014-15.
Clean Air Agenda - Spending Information
Planned spending for 2014-15: $450,000 Actual spending for 2014-15: $429,689

Theme III: Protecting Nature and Canadians

Target 4.1: Species at Risk

Implementation Strategy
4.1.9: Develop action plans for all protected areas with five or more species at risk by March 2016.
Link to FSDS 2013-16 Goals and Targets
Theme III: Protecting Nature and Canadians
Goal 4: Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians – Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come.
Target 4.1: Species at Risk: By 2020, populations of species at risk listed under federal law exhibit trends that are consistent with recovery strategies and management plans.
Link to Parks Canada Program Alignment Architecture
Strategic Outcome: Canadians have a strong sense of connection to their national parks, national historic sites, heritage canals and national marine conservation areas and these protected places are experienced in ways that leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
Program 1.2: Heritage Places Conservation
Sub Program 1.2.1: National Park Conservation
Description of the Implementation Strategy
Over half of Canada’s endangered and threatened species can be found in the protected heritage areas administered by Parks Canada. Parks Canada will protect these species and their critical habitat in the Agency’s heritage areas, and will support their recovery by leading the development and implementation of recovery strategies and action plans, monitoring species status, and conducting public awareness and engagement activities. Recovery planning is an obligation under the Species at Risk Act.
Performance Indicator
Number of action plans for national parks with 5 or more species at risk.
Performance Results for 2014-15
In 2014-15, action planning for six of the seven national parks with five or more species at risk was either initiated or in progress. The site-based multi-species approach for action plans allows the Agency to prioritize conservation actions for the suite of species at risk found in Parks Canada’s heritage places. In addition, 16 major projects were funded in 2014-15 to support the implementation of species at risk recovery actions while enhancing the visitor experience in Parks Canada’s heritage places.

Target 4.3: Terrestrial Ecosystem and Habitat Stewardship

Implementation Strategy
4.3.13: Make demonstrable progress on a yearly basis towards establishing national parks in one unrepresented region.
Link to FSDS 2013-16 Goals and Targets
Theme III: Protecting Nature and Canadians
Goal 4: Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians: Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come.
Target 4.3: Terrestrial Ecosystem and Habitat Stewardship: Contribute to the proposed national target that by 2020, at least 17% of terrestrial areas and inland water are conserved through networks of protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures.
Link to Parks Canada Program Alignment Architecture
Strategic Outcome: Canadians have a strong sense of connection to their national parks, national historic sites, heritage canals and national marine conservation areas and these protected places are experienced in ways that leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
Program 1.1: Heritage Places Establishment
Sub Program 1.1.1: National Park Establishment and Expansion
Description of the Implementation Strategy
This strategy entails the establishment of at least one national park in each of Canada’s 39 natural regions, in accordance with the National Parks System Plan. The completion of the system will protect representative examples of Canada’s natural diversity, and provide opportunities for Canadians to experience, understand and appreciate these places. Five steps are involved in the process to establish a national park: identify areas representative of a natural region; select an optimum national park candidate from the list of representative areas; assess the feasibility of establishing the proposed park through studies and consultations; negotiate new park agreements, including any that may be required with Aboriginal peoples or organizations; and formally establish the national park in legislation.
Performance Indicator
Number of unrepresented regions with demonstrable progress in advancing through steps towards establishing national parks.
Performance Results for 2014-15
Parks Canada exceeded its target by continuing to make demonstrable progress towards establishing national parks in two unrepresented natural regions: Northwestern Boreal Uplands in the Northwest Territories (Thaidene Nene proposal) and the Manitoba Lowlands (Manitoba Lowlands proposal). For the Thaidene Nene proposal, Parks Canada and the Northwest Territory Métis Nation made substantial progress on a draft Impact and Benefit Agreement. Information meetings on the proposed national park reserve were held with interested parties and stakeholders. Parks Canada and the Government of the Northwest Territories also began working to formalize how they will collaborate post-devolution on the work to define a boundary for the proposed national park reserve. For the Manitoba Lowlands proposal, progress was made on consultations with Aboriginal groups as well as initial identification of areas for inclusion in a potential national park.

Target 4.3: Terrestrial Ecosystem and Habitat Stewardship

Implementation Strategy
4.3.14: Increase the number of represented terrestrial natural regions from 28 in March 2012 to 30 of 39 by March 2015.
Link to FSDS 2013-16 Goals and Targets
Theme III: Protecting Nature and Canadians
Goal 4: Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians: Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come.
Target 4.3: Terrestrial Ecosystem and Habitat Stewardship: Contribute to the proposed national target that by 2020, at least 17% of terrestrial areas and inland water are conserved through networks of protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures.
Link to Parks Canada Program Alignment Architecture
Strategic Outcome: Canadians have a strong sense of connection to their national parks, national historic sites, heritage canals and national marine conservation areas and these protected places are experienced in ways that leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
Program 1.1: Heritage Places Establishment
Description of the Implementation Strategy
This strategy aims to establish national parks in order to conserve Canada’s natural and cultural heritage and make it available to Canadians for their benefit and enjoyment, thus fostering a strong sense of connection to our natural heritage. This strategy also supports Canada’s involvement in the internationally shared objective of protecting the best of the world’s natural heritage. By establishing national parks in each of Canada’s natural terrestrial regions, this strategy ensures the protection of representative examples of Canada’s natural diversity. Establishment is achieved through feasibility studies, research, consulting with Aboriginal peoples, stakeholders and the general public, negotiating with other governments and Aboriginal organizations, and fulfilling legislative requirements.
Performance Indicator
Number of represented terrestrial natural regions in the system of national parks.
Performance Results for 2014-15
At the beginning of this reporting period, the national parks system consisted of 44 national parks and national park reserves representing 28 of the 39 terrestrial natural regions. By furthering the Qausuittuq and Mealy Mountains proposals, Parks Canada met its target of increasing the number of represented terrestrial regions to 30. For the Qausuittuq proposal, Parks Canada and the Qikiqtani Inuit Association signed an Inuit Impact and Benefit Agreement (IIBA) to establish Qausuittuq National Park in Nunavut. An IIBA deals with anything that could either impact or benefit Inuit including: cooperative management, continuation of Inuit harvesting rights, and Inuit employment and economic benefits. An interim land withdrawal was renewed in December 2014 to protect the area until the park is formally established. The legislation to protect Qausuittuq National Park under the Canada National Parks Act received Royal Assent in June 2015. For the Mealy Mountains proposal, Parks Canada and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador signed a land transfer agreement to create a national park reserve in the Mealy Mountains region of Labrador. A Park Impact and Benefit Agreement with the Innu Nation was concluded and confirms cooperative management and planning of the park between the Innu and Parks Canada. The Agency is working to finalize collaborative relationships with other Aboriginal groups.

Target 4.4: Improving the Health of National Parks

Implementation Strategy
4.4.1: 80% of active management targets to improve ecological integrity are met by March 2015.
Link to FSDS 2013-16 Goals and Targets
Theme III: Protecting Nature and Canadians
Goal 4: Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians: Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come.
Target 4.4: Improving the Health of National Parks: Improve the condition of at least one Ecological Integrity Indicator in 20 national parks by 2015.
Link to Parks Canada Program Alignment Architecture
Strategic Outcome: Canadians have a strong sense of connection to their national parks, national historic sites, heritage canals and national marine conservation areas and these protected places are experienced in ways that leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
Program 1.2: Heritage Places Conservation
Sub Program 1.2.1: National Park Conservation
Description of the Implementation Strategy
This strategy aims to maintain or restore ecological integrity in national parks through protection, conservation, restoration or mitigation activities, as mandated under the Canada National Parks Act. To implement this strategy, Parks Canada carries out applied science, monitoring and reporting, ecological restoration, species recovery, environmental assessment, fire management and compliance activities. Some of these activities are done in collaboration with the general public, stakeholders, partners, local and Aboriginal communities. This strategy also includes fulfilling legal responsibilities assigned to Parks Canada by the Species at Risk Act and the Canadian Environmental Assessment Act.
Performance Indicator
Percentage of active management targets to improve ecological integrity that are met.
Performance Results for 2014-15
As of March 2015, projects under the Conservation and Restoration Program had led to the achievement of 56% of active management targets to enhance ecological integrity or the status of priority species at risk, thereby significantly improving national park conservation. While falling short of the 80% target, important conservation gains were made through projects that have not yet completely reached their targets. Parks Canada's performance to date is due to several factors including: the experimental nature of ecological restoration, project delays for 5% of the targets, and the unpredictable response of ecosystems following management intervention. Parks Canada is working on refining active management targets and improving project success.

Target 4.5: Marine Ecosystems

Implementation Strategy
4.5.6: Make demonstrable progress on a yearly basis towards establishing national marine conservation areas in two unrepresented regions.
Link to FSDS 2013-16 Goals and Targets
Theme III: Protecting Nature and Canadians
Goal 4: Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians: Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come.
Target 4.5: Marine Ecosystems: By 2020, 10% of coastal and marine areas are conserved through networks of protected areas and other effective area-based conservation measures.
Link to Parks Canada Program Alignment Architecture
Strategic Outcome: Canadians have a strong sense of connection to their national parks, national historic sites, heritage canals and national marine conservation areas and these protected places are experienced in ways that leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
Program 1.1: Heritage Places Establishment
Sub Program 1.1.2: National Marine Conservation Area Establishment
Description of the Implementation Strategy
This strategy aims to establish at least one national marine conservation area in each of Canada’s 29 marine regions, in accordance with the National Marine Conservation Areas System Plan. The expansion and completion of the system will conserve representative examples of the diversity of Canada’s oceans and Great Lakes, and provide opportunities for Canadians to experience, understand and appreciate these places. Five steps are involved in the process to establish a national marine conservation area: identify areas representative of a marine region; select an optimum national marine conservation area candidate from the list of representative areas; assess the feasibility of establishing the proposed marine conservation area through studies and consultations; negotiate new national marine conservation area agreements, including any that may be required with Aboriginal peoples or organizations; and formally establish the national marine conservation area in legislation.
Performance Indicator
Number of unrepresented regions with demonstrable progress in advancing through steps towards establishing national marine conservation areas.
Performance Results for 2014-15
In 2014-15, Parks Canada exceeded its target by making significant progress on the feasibility assessments for three national marine conservation area proposals in unrepresented marine regions. With respect to the Lancaster Sound proposal (Lancaster Sound marine region in Nunavut), consultations on the 2010 boundary for the proposed national marine conservation area were undertaken with key stakeholders, including industry and non-government organizations, supplementing the information gathered during the community consultations undertaken the previous year. A traditional knowledge study was completed and will soon be published. The Steering Committee for the proposed Lancaster Sound national marine conservation area significantly advanced the development of the feasibility assessment report to be submitted to the Ministers of Environment for Canada and Nunavut and the President of the Qikiqtani Inuit Association recommending whether the proposed national marine conservation area is feasible and under what conditions. Submission of this report will complete the feasibility assessment phase. Respecting the Southern Strait of Georgia proposal (Strait of Georgia marine region in British-Columbia), Parks Canada has significantly advanced the concept paper for the proposed national marine conservation area reserve and the analysis of boundary considerations. Engagement with First Nations continued. Parks Canada also continued to work with the province of Quebec on the Îles de la Madeleine marine protected area study (Magdalen Shallows marine region in Quebec). Both governments worked together to advance the completion of a synthesis report summarizing the initiatives undertaken and the research done with respect to the study.

Target 4.7: Environmental Disasters, Incidents and Emergencies

Implementation Strategy
4.7.4: In accordance with mandated responsibilities, provide environmental and/or other information to reduce the risk of, and advice in response to, the occurrence of events such as polluting incidents, wildlife disease events or severe weather and other significant hydro-meteorological events as applicable.
Link to FSDS 2013-16 Goals and Targets
Theme III: Protecting Nature and Canadians
Goal 4: Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians: Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come.
Target 4.7: Environmental Disasters, Incidents and Emergencies: Environmental disasters, incidents and emergencies are prevented or their impacts mitigated.
Link to Parks Canada Program Alignment Architecture
Strategic Outcome: Canadians have a strong sense of connection to their national parks, national historic sites, heritage canals and national marine conservation areas and these protected places are experienced in ways that leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
Program: Internal Services
Description of the Implementation Strategy
Provide equipment and human resources to assist in the response to environmental emergencies.
Performance Results for 2014-15
Although there were no requests for assistance in environmental emergencies from other governmental departments or external organizations, Parks Canada was prepared to provide equipment and human resources to assist upon request.

Note: Under the lead of Public Safety Canada, Parks Canada Agency supports the implementation of this strategy with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC), Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), Environment Canada (EC), Health Canada (HC), Industry Canada (IC), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC), and Transport Canada (TC).

Target 4.8: Chemicals Management

Implementation Strategy
4.8.1: Implement the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan and complete remediation and risk management activities at known high priority federal contaminated sites.
Link to FSDS 2013-16 Goals and Targets
Theme III: Protecting Nature and Canadians
Goal 4: Conserving and Restoring Ecosystems, Wildlife and Habitat, and Protecting Canadians: Resilient ecosystems with healthy wildlife populations so Canadians can enjoy benefits from natural spaces, resources and ecological services for generations to come.
Target 4.8: Chemicals Management: Reduce risks to Canadians and impacts on the environment and human health posed by releases of harmful substances.
Link to Parks Canada Program Alignment Architecture
Strategic Outcome: Canadians have a strong sense of connection to their national parks, national historic sites, heritage canals and national marine conservation areas and these protected places are experienced in ways that leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
Program 1.2: Heritage Places Conservation
Description of the Implementation Strategy
Parks Canada is responsible for 475 sites registered in the Federal Contaminated Sites Inventory as of March 31, 2015. With funding from the Federal Contaminated Sites Action Plan, the Agency undertakes risk reduction activities (through remediation and/or risk management) at its high-priority contaminated sites.
Expected Result
Mitigate risks to the environment and human health as well as reduce financial liability.
Performance Results for 2014-15
In 2014-15, Parks Canada closed three federal contaminated sites and undertook remediation and/or risk management activities at 31 other sites.

Note: Under the lead of Environment Canada (EC), Parks Canada Agency collaborates with other federal departments and agencies, including Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada (AANDC), Correctional Service of Canada (CSC), Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), Department of National Defense (DND), National Research Council (NRC), Public Works and Government Services Canada (PWGSC), Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and Transport Canada (TC) to implement this strategy.

4. Theme IV: Targets and Implementation Strategies

Goal 6: GHG Emissions and Energy

Target 6.1: GHG Emissions Reduction

The Government of Canada will reduce greenhouse gas emissions from its buildings and fleets by 17% below 2005 levels by 2020.

Departmental Target
10.1% below 2005 levels by 2020
Scope and Context
Parks Canada will reduce GHG emissions generated by the consumption of energy from assets that are owned and operated by Parks Canada. This includes fleets and facilities where Parks Canada is directly paying for energy.
Financial Performance Expectations
Significant investments in Parks Canada infrastructure will result in increased energy efficiency of facilities.
Performance Measurement
Expected result
Reduce the carbon footprint and energy consumption of federal operations.
Performance indicator	Performance level achieved
Updated GHG reduction implementation plan in place by March 31, 2015.	Actual completion date: February 2015
GHG emissions (kt CO2 equivalent) in fiscal year 2005–06.	39.1 kt
GHG emissions (kt CO2 equivalent) in fiscal year 2014–15, not accounting for renewable power emission credits, if applicable	36.9 kt
Renewable power emission credits applied in fiscal year 2014–15 (kt CO2 equivalent).	0 kt
Percentage change in GHG emissions from fiscal year 2005–06 to fiscal year 2014–15, inclusive of renewable power emission credits, if applicable.	5.6% decrease
Adjustments made to base year GHG emissions.	Yes. Base year GHG emission levels (fiscal year 2005-06) have been recalculated using emission factors from the latest electricity intensity tables published by Environment Canada. These factors, which are used to calculate emissions from purchased electricity, have been updated due to changes in Environment Canada's methodology for quantifying emissions from electricity generation in Canada.

Goal 7: Waste and Asset Management

Target 7.1: Real Property Environmental Performance

As of April 1, 2014, and pursuant to departmental Real Property Sustainability Frameworks, an industry recognized level of high environmental performance will be achieved in Government of Canada real property projects and operations.

Scope and Context
The Parks Canada Real Property Sustainability Framework applies to buildings over 1,000 square meters owned and managed by Parks Canada.
Performance Measurement
Expected result
An industry-recognized level of high environmental performance will be achieved in Government of Canada real property projects and operations.
Performance indicator	Performance level achieved
A Real Property Sustainability Framework in place to improve the management of energy, waste and water in departmental real property assets by March 31, 2015.	Actual completion date: February 2015
Total number of existing Crown-owned buildings (over 1000 m2) and new lease or lease renewal projects (over 1000 m2) where the Crown is the major lessee, assessed for environmental performance using an industry-recognized assessment tool, and associated floor space (m2).	10 out of 21 Crown-owned buildings 20,050 m2 / 42,840 m2
	0 new lease or lease renewal projects 0 m2
	Assessment tool used: BOMA BESt
Total number of existing Crown-owned buildings, new construction, build-to-lease projects and major renovations projects achieving an industry recognized level of high environmental performance, and associated floor space (m2).	1 Crown-owned building 1046 m2 Performance level achieved: LEED Platinum
	0 new construction projects 0 m2 Performance level achieved: N/A
	0 build-to-lease projects 0 m2 Performance level achieved: N/A
	0 major renovation projects 0 m2 Performance level achieved: N/A
Number of fit-up and refit projects achieving an industry-recognized level of high-environmental performance.	0 fit-up and refit projects 0 m2 Performance level achieved: N/A
Implementation strategy element or best practice	Performance level achieved
7.1.1.1. Achieve a level of performance that meets or exceeds the custodian's current commitment(s) to sustainable buildings using industry-recognized assessment and verification tool(s).	“Achieved”
7.1.1.2. Conduct life-cycle assessments for major construction and renovation projects using an industry-recognized tool.	“Achieved”
7.1.1.3. Develop plans to address environmental performance assessment recommendations for existing Crown-owned buildings.	“On track”
7.1.1.4. Manage the collection, diversion and disposal of workplace waste in Crown-owned buildings in an environmentally responsible manner.	“Achieved”
7.1.1.5. Manage construction, renovation and demolition waste in Crown-owned buildings in an environmentally responsible manner.	“Achieved”
7.1.1.7. Develop an approach to training for building operators of Crown-owned buildings.	“Achieved”

Target 7.2: Green Procurement

As of April 1, 2014, the Government of Canada will continue to take action to embed environmental considerations into public procurement, in accordance with the federal Policy on Green Procurement.

Scope and Context
Parks Canada targets include Purchasing and Training and Evaluation.
Performance Measurement
Expected result
Environmentally responsible acquisition, use and disposal of goods and services.
Performance indicator	Performance level achieved
Departmental approach to further the implementation of the Policy on Green Procurement in place as of April 1, 2014	Completion date: November 2012 The Policy on Green Procurement has been implemented. All procurement activity involves the integration of environmental performance considerations ranging from the initial procurement planning, the acquisition, maintenance and final disposal if need be. The Parks Canada intranet site provides specific guidance and tools for the implementation of Green Procurement practices.
Number and percentage of procurement and/or materiel management specialists who completed the Canada School of Public Service Green Procurement course (C215) or equivalent, in fiscal year 2014–15.	32 of 35 91.4%
Number and percentage of managers and functional heads of procurement and materiel whose performance evaluation includes support and contribution toward green procurement, in fiscal year 2014–15.	6 of 6 100% As part of their annual performance evaluation, procurement managers and functional heads are expected to adhere to and implement all government procurement policies and guidelines, this includes support and contribution towards green procurement.
Departmental green procurement target
1. As of March 31, 2017, 75% of vehicles purchased annually will be from the Parks Canada Preauthorized Vehicle List.
Performance indicator	Performance level achieved
Percentage of vehicles purchased that were on the Parks Canada Preauthorized Vehicle List.	117 of 145 80.7% “Achieved”
Departmental green procurement target
2. As of March 31, 2017, 95% of printers, photocopiers, and multi-functional devices will have environmental features such as duplex printing capability or automatic shutoff mode.
Performance indicator	Performance level achieved
Number of printers, photocopiers, and multifunctional devices purchased or leased that has an environmental feature relative to total number purchased.	100% 10 of 10 “Achieved”
Departmental green procurement target
3. As of March 31, 2017, 100% of office computers will have a minimum lifespan of three years, to reduce electronic waste.
Performance indicator	Performance level achieved
Average service life of office computers.	100% Average service life of office computers is 3 years. “Achieved”
Implementation strategy element or best practice	Performance level achieved
7.2.1.5. Leverage common use procurement instruments where available and feasible.	“Achieved”
Best Practice 7.2.3. Train acquisition cardholders on green procurement.	“On Track”
Best Practice 7.2.4. Increase awareness of the Policy on Green Procurement among managers.	“Achieved”

Target 7.3: Sustainable Workplace Operations

As of April 1, 2015, the Government of Canada will update and adopt policies and practices to improve the sustainability of its workplace operations.

Scope and Context
Parks Canada supports the establishment of local Green Teams.
Performance Measurement
Expected result
Departmental workplace operations have a reduced environmental impact.
Performance indicator	Performance level achieved
An approach to maintain or improve the sustainability of the departmental workplace is in place by March 31, 2015.	Actual completion date: February 2015
Implementation strategy element or best practice	Performance level achieved
7.3.1.1. Engage employees in greening government operations practices.	“Achieved”
7.3.1.2. Integrate environmental considerations into corporate policies, processes and practices in accordance with departmental refresh cycles.	“Achieved”
7.3.1.3. Maintain or improve existing approaches to sustainable workplace practices (i.e., printer ratios, paper usage, and green meetings).	“Achieved”
7.3.1.4. Minimize the ratio of information technology (IT) assets per employee.	“Achieved”
7.3.1.5. Select and operate IT and office equipment in a manner that reduces energy consumption and material usage.	“Achieved”
7.3.1.6. Dispose of e-waste in an environmentally sound and secure manner.	“Achieved”
7.3.1.7. Reuse or recycle workplace materiel and assets in an environmentally sound and secure manner.	“Achieved”
7.3.1.8. Minimize all non-hazardous solid waste generated, and leverage service offerings to maximize the diversion of waste.	“Achieved”
7.3.1.9. Increase the population density in office buildings, and increase space utilization in special purpose buildings.	“Achieved”
7.3.1.10. Maintain or improve sustainable fleet management.	“Achieved”

Goal 8: Water Management

Target 8.1: Water Management

As of April 1, 2014, the Government of Canada will take further action to improve water management within its real property portfolio.

Scope and Context
This Framework applies to buildings owned and managed by Parks Canada.
Performance Measurement
Expected result
Water is managed sustainably in Government of Canada real property operations.
Performance indicator	Performance level achieved
Approach to improving water management included in Real Property Sustainability Framework by March 31, 2015.	Actual completion date: February 2015
Amount and percentage of floor space in buildings over 1000 m2 that includes water metering, in fiscal year 2014–15 (where feasible).	42,840 m2 existing Crown-owned 100%
	0 m2 new Crown and built-to-lease 0%
	0 m2 major renovations 0%
	0 m2 leases 0%
Implementation strategy element or best practice	Performance level achieved
8.1.1.1. Conserve potable water.	“Achieved”
8.1.1.2. Manage storm water run-off.	“Achieved”
8.1.1.4. Meter the water usage in new projects.	“Achieved”

5. Additional Departmental Sustainable Development Activities and Initiatives

In addition to its core implementation strategies, Parks Canada contributes to sustainable development through additional activities such as the engagement of Canadians through stakeholder and partner relationships and visitor experiences.

Partnering and Participation

Activity
Parks Canada will provide increased opportunities for Canadians to be involved with Parks Canada places in activities they consider meaningful and relevant.
Link to FSDS 2013-16 Themes
Theme III: Protecting Nature and Canadians
Link to Parks Canada Program Alignment Architecture
Strategic Outcome: Canadians have a strong sense of connection to their national parks, national historic sites, heritage canals and national marine conservation areas and these protected places are experienced in ways that leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
Program 1.3: Heritage Places Promotion and Public Support
Sub-Program 1.3.2: Partnering and Participation
Description of the Program
This program encourages the participation of partners and stakeholders and leads to new or expanded opportunities for Canadians to discover and develop a sense of connection to their protected heritage places. Partnering arrangements advance shared or complimentary goals and objectives, and result in a wide range of collaborative activities including program delivery, promotional campaigns, contests, scientific and academic research, learning tools and new products. Partners include private sector organizations as well as other government departments, NGO's, academic institutions, and Aboriginal peoples, who in a number of places co-manage national heritage places. Stakeholders engage with Parks Canada through a wide variety of activities such as the Minister’s Round Table, formal and informal consultation processes, and the national volunteer program. Stakeholders include individuals, groups and organizations that have an interest in Parks Canada and ensure that Canadians’ needs and priorities are clearly expressed and inform Parks Canada's actions and direction.
Expected Result
Stakeholders and partners are engaged in the protection and presentation of Parks Canada's administered places.
Performance Indicators
Number of Parks Canada volunteers Number of collaborative initiatives with five strategic corporate partners
Performance Expectations
10% increase (8325 Volunteers) in the number of Parks Canada volunteers by March 2018. Maintain or expand the number of collaborative initiatives with five strategic corporate partners by March 2018.
Performance Results for 2014-15
Parks Canada’s success at facilitating increased opportunities for Canadians to connect with, learn about and be inspired by their natural and cultural heritage is shared with dedicated partners and stakeholders who play an active role in the development and implementation of these opportunities. The Agency maximizes its reach through an array of volunteer activities and by collaborating with a mix of partners on initiatives associated with mutual and complimentary objectives, such as connecting youth and families with nature and history, learning about biodiversity and conservation, and encouraging visitation. In 2014-15, 7,527 volunteers worked in 91 different Parks Canada locations. This represents a slight decrease (1%) from the baseline of 7,569. Despite this, the overall trend over the last four years has seen an increase in the number of volunteers ranging from 7,500 to as high as 8,300 in years of major celebrations (e.g. Parks Canada Centennial in 2011-12 and Louisbourg 300 celebrations in 2013-14). Parks Canada also made progress on maintaining or expanding the number of collaborative initiatives with strategic partners. These relationships help strengthen support and grow further initiatives with current and new partners with whom Parks Canada hopes to collaborate. In 2014-15, the Agency: partnered with the Royal Canadian Geographic Society to support the Franklin search and to promote educational material and publications on the expedition; negotiated a three year partnership agreement with the Royal Ontario Museum to promote the history of the Franklin expedition and discovery of the HMS Erebus through its network of museum institutions; negotiated a partnering agreement with the Canadian Wildlife Federation to contribute to the Great Canadian Camp-out program and promote camping; expanded the partnership with Google Street View to publish virtual tour content for over 50 Parks Canada locations, including four northern national parks; and partnered with OwlKids to feature Parks Canada’s mascot, Parka, in Chirp and Pomme d’Api magazines and extend its reach to 300,000 youth.

Visitor Experience

Activity
Parks Canada will facilitate a diverse range of opportunities in Parks Canada’s protected heritage places for visitors to learn about, experience, and enjoy the spirit, wonder, and awe of Canada’s network of heritage places.
Link to FSDS 2013-16 Themes
Theme III: Protecting Nature and Canadians
Link to Parks Canada Program Alignment Architecture
Strategic Outcome: Canadians have a strong sense of connection to their national parks, national historic sites, heritage canals and national marine conservation areas and these protected places are experienced in ways that leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of present and future generations.
Program 1.4: Visitor Experience
Description of the Program
This program fosters opportunities for Canadians and international visitors to discover, experience, enjoy and develop a sense of personal connection to Canada’s national parks, national urban park, national historic sites administered by Parks Canada, national marine conservation areas, and heritage canals. This program includes a range of activities, services and products associated with pre-visit planning, the on-site visit, and post visit communications. It includes tourism marketing, trip planning information, reception, orientation, interpretation, recreation, special events, merchandise, compliance and visitor safety services, and visitor facilities. The program is supported by market and visitor analytics, trend analysis, and performance measurement.
Expected Result
Visitors at surveyed locations feel a sense of personal connection to the places visited.
Performance Indicators
Number of visits at Parks Canada administered places Average percentage of visitors that consider the place is meaningful to them Average percentage of visitors that are satisfied/very satisfied with their visit
Performance Expectations
2% increase every year in the number of visits at Parks Canada administered places. On average, 85% of visitors at surveyed locations consider the place meaningful to them. On average, 90% of visitors at surveyed locations are satisfied and on average, 50% are very satisfied with their visit.
Performance Results for 2014-15
Canada’s natural and historic treasures leave an enduring impression in the hearts and minds of Canadians for many reasons. For some, the significance ingrained in the fabric of the place nurtures a sense of connection, while for others it is indulging in recreational or learning interests, enjoying the splendor of the natural environment and/or participating in family traditions. The Agency continued its efforts to inspire Canadians to visit and connect with their heritage places in 2014-15. These initiatives included launching a national tourism promotional campaign in cinemas across Canada and on popular social media channels, supporting cross-promotional initiatives in markets such as Montreal, expanding the Xplorers Program to 90 locations, introducing “Club Parka”, a new program targeting preschool-aged children, in 19 locations, offering 22 Learn-to Camp events, installing 114 new oTENTiks, improving online reservation capabilities, and upgrading the camping offer and interpretive programming at many heritage places. As a result of these efforts, visitation to Parks Canada’s heritage places increased by 5% in 2014-15 to 21.8 million exceeding its target by 3%. Parks Canada also mostly met or exceeded its performance targets related to the percentage of visitors at surveyed locations who considered the place they visited meaningful to them (80%), and who were satisfied (95%) or very satisfied (66%) with their visit.

6. Sustainable Development Management System

Parks Canada Sustainable Development Vision

The Federal Sustainable Development Act defines sustainable development as development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. It states that the Government of Canada “acknowledges the need to integrate environmental, economic and social factors in the making of all decisions by government.”

Sustainable development is central to Parks Canada's mandate and vision. It is ingrained in all aspects of the Agency’s activities from establishing and conserving national parks and national marine conservation areas to designating and commemorating national historic sites. Parks Canada is committed to ensuring that Canada's treasured natural and historic places remain unimpaired for the understanding, appreciation and enjoyment of present and future generations.

Parks Canada activities also contribute to the Canadian economy. The combined annual expenditures of Parks Canada and its millions of visitors make a substantial and widespread contribution to the Canadian economy, both directly through its facilities, locations and services, and indirectly in the surrounding communities through spending on accommodations, restaurants, and other tourism-related businesses. Parks Canada places contribute $3.3 billion annually to the Canadian economy, sustaining more than 41,000 jobs in hundreds of communities across the country.

Managing Sustainable Development

Sustainable development involves the consideration of environmental, economic and social objectives in the development and implementation of public policies and programs. The needs of the present as well as the needs of future generations are also taken into consideration. Integrated decision-making and a long-term approach to planning are defining characteristics of sustainable development.

Parks Canada takes an integrated approach in managing its heritage places. For example, Parks Canada carries out active management and restoration projects in national parks. These projects are designed in a manner that ensures the conservation of natural resources, while engaging key audiences and enhancing visitor experiences. This integrated approach to the delivery of Parks Canada's mandate has strengthened the Agency's contribution to all aspects of sustainable development - environmental, social and economic.

Parks Canada's decision making and sustainable development practices include collaborating with groups that share its values and have an interest in its work. The establishment of national parks and national marine conservation areas, for example, requires a high level of engagement on the part of provincial governments and Aboriginal peoples. The designation and commemoration of persons, places and events of historic significance equally demands the active participation of stakeholders, partners and community groups. The Agency recognizes that building and maintaining these collaborative relationships is essential to achieving its mandate of protecting and presenting Canada’s natural and cultural heritage.

Moreover, Parks Canada promotes sustainable development practices by encouraging the use of analytical techniques that compare and integrate environmental, social, and economic objectives and that address multi-year or long-term concerns. For example, the Agency uses social science analytical and performance measurement tools to understand and engage Canadians, particularly certain segments of the population (e.g. urban, youth, new Canadians), in meaningful ways to ensure that its heritage places remain relevant for present and future generations.

Finally the Agency is engaged in several interdepartmental initiatives related to sustainable development, such as the Clean Air Agenda, Species at Risk, Federal Contaminated Sites, and Greening Government Operations.

7. Strategic Environmental Assessment

During the 2014–15 reporting cycle, Parks Canada considered the environmental effects of initiatives subject to the Cabinet Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals, as part of its decision-making processes. Through the strategic environmental assessment process, agency proposals were found to have positive effects on progress toward the 2013–16 FSDS goals and targets in Theme I – Addressing Climate Change and Air Quality; Theme III – Protecting Nature and Canadians, and the FSDS 2013–16 for Theme IV – Shrinking the Environmental Footprint – Beginning with Government.

Additional information on the results of the strategic environmental assessment(s) is available on the Parks Canada website: http://www.pc.gc.ca/progs/eie-eia/itm4.aspx.

Back to Supplementary Tables Menu

---

Details on Transfer Payment Programs of $5 Million or More

1. Name of transfer payment program: General Class Contribution Program (GCCP)

Start Date: 1995-96

End Date: Ongoing

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: Terms and conditions were last amended in 2015-16.

Strategic Outcome: Canadians have a strong sense of connection to their national parks, national historic sites, heritage canals and national marine conservation areas and these protected places are experienced in ways that leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of present and future generations.

Link to Agency’s Program Alignment Architecture:

• Program 1.1 Heritage Places Establishment
• Program 1.2 Heritage Places Conservation
• Program 1.3 Heritage Places Promotion and Public Support
• Program 1.4 Visitor Experience
• Program 1.5 Heritage Canals, Highways and Townsites Management
• Internal Services

Description: The objective of the program is to assist recipients in conducting activities and delivering projects that will support the Agency in fulfilling its mandate to preserve and protect nationally significant examples of Canada's natural and cultural heritage and present and foster public understanding, appreciation and enjoyment in ways that ensure the ecological and commemorative integrity of these places for present and future generations.

Results achieved: Projects under the General Class Contribution Program addressed one or more of the following priorities:

• More Canadians recognized, appreciated and were engaged in the values of natural and cultural conservation.
• Stakeholders are further engaged in terms of interest and involvement of common objectives towards ecological or cultural integrity.
• Access to a better knowledge base on commercial, ecological or aboriginal issues of mutual interest for informed decision-making and dialogue for Parks Canada managers and stakeholders.
• More heritage assets are protected, secured and researched.
• Targeted audiences are educated in such areas as ecology and safety.

Performance Information (dollars):

Type of Transfer Payment	2012–13 Actual spending	2013–14 Actual spending	2014–15 Planned spending	2014–15 Total authorities available for use	2014–15 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2014–15 actual minus 2014–15 planned)
Total grants	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total contributions	12,211,018	5,328,446	3,760,270	5,574,022	5,574,022	1,813,752
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	12,211,018	5,328,446	3,760,270	5,574,022	5,574,022	1,813,752

Comments on variances: The variance in actual spending in 2014-15 is primarily the result of additional contributions sourced from operating funding. Planned spending is based on a preliminary annual forecast; Total Authorities are based on actual approvals.

Audits completed or planned: Not applicable

Evaluations completed or planned: The next scheduled evaluation will take place in the fiscal year 2015-16.

Engagement of applicants and recipients: Not applicable

2. Name of transfer payment program: Funding to Support the Trans Canada Trail Foundation's (TCTF) Fundraising Campaign

Start Date: 2013-14

End Date: April 1, 2017

Fiscal year for terms and conditions: 2013-14

Strategic Outcome: Canadians have a strong sense of connection to their national parks, national historic sites, heritage canals and national marine conservation areas and these protected places are experienced in ways that leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of present and future generations.

Link to Agency’s Program Alignment Architecture:

• Program 1.1 Heritage Places Establishment

Description: The purpose of this grant is to fulfill the Government of Canada's commitment towards the completion of the Trans Canada Trail. The objective is to support the Trans Canada Trail Foundation in their efforts to raise funds to complete the Trans Canada Trail by 2017.

Results achieved:
Performance Information (dollars)

Type of Transfer Payment	2012–13 Actual spending	2013–14 Actual spending	2014–15 Planned spending	2014–15 Total authorities available for use	2014–15 Actual spending (authorities used)	Variance (2014–15 actual minus 2014–15 planned)
Total grants	0	7,152,037	6,250,000	6,250,000	5,520,495	(729,505)
Total contributions	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total other types of transfer payments	0	0	0	0	0	0
Total program	0	7,152,037	6,250,000	6,250,000	5,520,495	(729,505)

Comments on variances: Grant planned spending is an estimate; actual payments are based on fundraising results by the recipient during the period.

Audits completed or planned: Not applicable

Evaluations completed or planned: Not applicable

Engagement of applicants and recipients: Not applicable

Back to Supplementary Tables Menu

---

Internal Audits and Evaluations

A. Internal Audits Completed in 2014–15

Title of Internal Audit	Internal Audit Type	Completion Date
Internal Audit of Financial and Administrative Processes - Southwest Northwest Territories Field Unit	Financial management controls	January 2015
Internal Audit of Government Housing Management at Parks Canada	Internal controls/asset management	October 2014
Internal Audit of Financial and Administrative Processes - Nunavut Field Unit	Financial management controls	October 2014
Office of the Comptroller General (OCG) - Horizontal Internal Audit of Information Technology Security in large and small departments	Internal controls	November 2014*

^*The examination phase was conducted by Parks Canada and completed in November 2014.

B. Evaluations in Progress or Completed in 2014–15

Link to Department's Program Alignment Architecture	Title of the Evaluation	Status	Deputy Head Approval Date
1.1.1 - National Park Establishment and Expansion	Evaluation of Parks Canada’s National Park Establishment and Expansion Sub-Program	Completed	June 2014
1.2.1 - National Park Conservation	Evaluation of Parks Canada’s National Parks Conservation	Completed	June 2014
1.1.3 - National Historic Site Designations	National Historic Site Designations	Completed	July 2015
1.1.4 - Other Heritage Places Designations 1.2.5 - Other Heritage Places Conservation	Other Heritage Places Designation and Conservation	Completed	July 2015
1.5.2 - Highway Management	Trans Canada Highway Twinning Project	Completed	July 2015
1.2 - Heritage Places Conservation	Law Enforcement	In progress	December 2015
1.5.1 - Townsite Management	Townsite Management	In progress	December 2015
1.2.1 National Park Conservation	Climate Change Adaptation (Clean Air Agenda)	In progress	March 2016

Parks Canada Multi-Year Evaluation Plan 2014-15 to 2018-19: http://www.pc.gc.ca/docs/pc/rpts/rve-par/87/index_e.asp

Back to Supplementary Tables Menu

---

Response to Parliamentary Committees and External Audits