People hoping to visit nearby Parks Canada facilities won’t be able to access them by vehicle for the time being.
Parks Canada is temporarily suspending all vehicle access to national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas immediately. The Fort Battleford, Frog Lake National Historic Sites and Elk Island National Park are included in the suspension. The restriction follows the closure of visitor services and facilities from last week.
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada Jonathan Wilkinson says the move is to reduce the number of visitors and minimize the risks for both visitors and employees.
“The window to contain the spread of COVID-19 is short and we must all change our behaviours now to flatten the curve and reduce the burden on our health care system. I am asking all Canadians to follow the advice of public health experts, stay home, and undertake essential travel only. We must all work together to limit the spread of COVID-19.”
Traffic is permitted on the highways and roadways which pass through Parks Canada places. Parking is not permitted on the roadways.Â
Indigenous traditional activities in Parks Canada locations will continue, but users are asked to follow social distancing protocols. Residents of townsites are permitted vehicular access, but those with recreational properties within national parks are strongly encouraged to stay home.