Interpretation and implementation of the mandate to maintain ecological integrity in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Date
1996
Authors
Wipond, Karen Janet
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Abstract
An amendment to the National Parks Act in 1988 established the maintenance of "ecological integrity" as a primary mandate of Canada's national parks. Subsequent national, regional, and park-level policy documents have consistently supported this shift away from visitor interests toward greater protection of ecological systems. The study explores how this mandate was being interpreted and put into practice at Pacific Rim National Park Reserve in British Columbia. Planning and operational documents were reviewed and park activities were examined in light of general criteria synthesized from conservation science literature. Park managers, field staff, and a small group of outside experts were canvassed for their views on the park's progress. While some positive changes were observed, external pressures and internal obstacles to implementation appeared to more than offset these gains. Also concerning, was that the rhetoric of ecological integrity may be diverting attention away from the serious threats facing the park.