Parks Canada is updating the management plan for Cape Breton Highlands National Park

The management of a national park is guided by a park management plan. A management plan provides strategic and long-term direction for park management, outlining a 15- to 20-year vision as well as objectives for the 10-year lifespan of the plan.

This strategic direction is required by legislation and informed by consultation with Indigenous partners, stakeholders and other partners, and the Canadian public. Once approved by the Minister responsible for Parks Canada, the management plan is tabled in Parliament, serving as the primary public accountability document for the national park.

The draft management plan for Cape Breton Highlands National Park outlines direction for:

• Shared management of the park with the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia, and increasing their connections to the park;
• Promoting collaboration with local communities, and conservation, tourism and economic development interests in park management;
• Ensuring the park’s ecological integrity and conservation of cultural values;
• Increasing efficiencies and sustainability of park infrastructure, meeting priorities including greening operations and universal accessibility, while responding to challenges such as climate change;
• Promoting public enjoyment, visitor programming and outreach.

Invitation to provide feedback

A draft management plan for Cape Breton Highlands National Park has been prepared by Parks Canada to replace the 2010 management plan (PDF - 7.68 MB); it is ready for public review.

This draft plan was prepared following engagement in winter 2020 with the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia, local communities, groups and organizations representing tourism, conservation and economic development interests and the Canadian public. A “What We Heard” report summarizes feedback we received during this phase. We invite you to review the draft management plan for Cape Breton Highlands National Park and provide your feedback. Hearing from a wide range of people with diverse perspectives will inform and strengthen the future management direction for the park. Consultation on the draft Cape Breton Highlands National Park Management Plan is open from October 18 to November 30, 2021. We encourage you to share your thoughts.

Here are some questions to keep in mind as you review the draft plan:

1. Does the vision for the park reflect how you see the park in 15 to 20 years? If not, why not?
2. Does the plan adequately address the conservation of natural and cultural values of the park? If not, what are your priorities in these areas?
3. Does the plan address priorities for park infrastructure, particularly greening operations, adapting to climate change and universal accessibility?
4. Do you agree with the key priorities outlined for visitor experience in the park? If not, what should visitors be able to see and do?
5. Does the plan explain the importance of the park for the Mi’kmaq of Nova Scotia, and priorities for their greater involvement in park management, Mi’kmaq-led programming and increased presence in and use of the park?