Riding Mountain National Park Management Plan Amendment 2012 (PDF 6.4 MB)

Wasagaming, Manitoba, June 15, 2012 – Parks Canada today announced a management plan amendment related to the Mount Agassiz ski area in Riding Mountain National Park was tabled in Parliament.

This management plan amendment will enable proposals to be considered for the redevelopment of a ski hill operation at the Mount Agassiz ski area, with the possibility of multi-season recreational uses. Parks Canada is developing a process to consider proposals to operate Agassiz and expects to launch a Request for Proposals in early 2013. Proposals will need to demonstrate financial sustainability, contributions to visitors discovering and experiencing this unique area, environmental protection, and consistency with Parks Canada legislation and policy requirements.

All ski areas in national parks are guided by Ski Area Management Guidelines. The goals of this policy are to achieve long-term land use certainty that ensures ecological integrity will be maintained or restored; contribute to facilitating memorable national park visitor experiences and educational opportunities; and provide ski area operators with clear parameters for business planning in support of an economically healthy operation.

The Riding Mountain management plan amendment was developed in consultation with the public, interested stakeholders and partners and included public information meetings in Neepawa, McCreary, Russell and Dauphin, Manitoba, as well as an on-line survey and meetings. Through these consultations, Parks Canada heard strong public support expressed for the potential viability of a ski hill operation at Mount Agassiz.

Management plans are the primary accountability documents for the management of protected heritage places under Parks Canada’s care.

Parks Canada works to ensure Canada’s historic and natural heritage is protected. Through a network of 43 national parks, 167 national historic sites, and four national marine conservation areas, Parks Canada invites Canadians and people around the world to engage in personal moments of inspiring discovery at our treasured natural and historic places.

 Riding Mountain National Park Management Plan Amendment 2012 (PDF 6.4 MB)