Ontario’s system of protected areas includes over 640 provincial parks and conservation reserves that comprise about 9% of Ontario. These areas serve as sites for protection, recreation, scientific research and traditional uses. Climate change has been identified as a significant stressor that may affect these values and activities in a host of ways.
Many protected areas were established to protect representative features, ecosystems and species. As ecosystems move and change in response to climate change, some may be lost from the fixed boundaries of protected areas. The selection and design of future protected areas may need to be adjusted to better allow species and ecosystems to migrate in response to climate change.
Patterns of recreational use may also change. Summer activities such as camping and swimming may be affected. Spring and fall recreational use may become more popular. As the winter season shortens and snow cover becomes less reliable, opportunities for winter activities may decline.
Protected areas will be subject to the changes that affect other natural areas. These may include more natural disturbances such as forest fires, insect outbreaks, storms, and floods; lower water levels, especially along the Great Lakes; more invasive species, both in the water and on land; and less habitat for fish that require colder water.
The following report provides more information about the effects of climate change on some of Ontario’s protected areas:
More information about our parks and protected areas and the effects of climate change can be found in the following report.
Contact Applied Research and Development Branch for information on how to obtain this report:
- Scott, D., and C. Lemieux. 2005. Climate Change and Protected Area Policy and Planning in Canada. The Forestry Chronicle, 81(5): 696-703
Photography
Scott Bishop
