Survey indicates National Parks are about protecting wilderness

August 19, 2000
Source: Angus Reid
Original story - link verified on August 19, 2000

In the debate over conservation vs. recreational development in Alberta’s four National Parks, Alberta residents heavily endorse protection of wilderness areas, according to a survey released today by the Angus Reid Group. When asked to choose between two alternative roles for National Parks, fully 65 percent indicate that National Parks should be about “conservation and preservation of the natural environment for future generations” compared with 22 percent who maintain that National Parks should be about “promoting tourism and showcasing beautiful scenery, now and in the future”. For most Albertans, National Parks appear to be more about seeing protected wilderness and wildlife, learning about the environment, hiking and camping pursuits than about shopping, golfing and skiing.

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