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Slate IslandsProvincial Park
Management Plan
NOTE: This document has been scanned and formatted, and therefore is slightly different from theoriginal version. -March 2002
© 1991, Queens Printer for Ontario
Printed in Ontario, Canada
Additional copies of this publication are available for $5.00 from:
Ministry of Natural ResourcesTerrace Bay District OfficeP.O. Box 280Terrace Bay, OntarioPOT 2W0
Mail Orders: Contact the Terrace Bay District Office. Telephone (807) 825-3205. Cheques or money orders should be made payable to the Treasurer of Ontario,
and payment must accompany the order.
APPROVAL STATEMENT
Slate Islands Provincial Park, located thirteen kilometres offshore on Lake Superior, displays asimplified ecosystem with a unique assemblage of plant and animal species. Caribou andbeaver exist in high numbers without the natural influence of predators. The cooling influence ofLake Superior has provided a niche for relatively rare alpine plants. The islands display acomplex geological development and a fascinating history of human occupation and use.
We are pleased to approve the Slate Islands Provincial Park Management Plan as Official policyfor the management and development of this park. The plan reflects this Ministry’s intent toprotect natural and cultural features of the Slate Islands and maintain high quality opportunitiesfor outdoor recreation and heritage appreciation, for both residents of Ontario and visitors to theProvince.
M. S. Millar N. R. RichardsActing Regional Director DirectorNorth Central Region Parks and Recreational
Areas Branch
SLATE ISLANDS PROVINCIAL PARK MANAGEMENT PLAN - SUMMARY
Slate Islands Provincial Park is classified as a Natural Environment provincial park, andis located in Lake Superior within the Corporation of the Township of Terrace Bay, 13kilometres southeast of the townsite. It encompasses 6570 hectares of land and watersincluding the waters of Lake Superior.
The Slate Islands were established in regulation as a provincial park in February 1985,after being recommended for park status in the Terrace Bay District Land UseGuidelines. The Slate Islands have long been recognized as possessing a simplifiedecosystem with a unique assemblage of plant and animal species. Woodland caribouand beaver exist in high numbers without the natural influence of predators. The coolingeffects of Lake Superior have provided a niche for relatively rare alpine plants. Therugged slopes and exposed bedrock display a complex geological history. The islandsare very scenic, have excellent recreational potential and display a fascinating history ofhuman occupation and use.
Park facilities have not yet been developed on the islands. At present the mainrecreational use of the Slate Islands is by local people and visitors to the region, whoare boating, camping and fishing. The Slate Islands also harbour sailboats and cruisers.At present there are five structures located within the park without legal authority. Thecrown will take possession of the existing structures and if safe they will be converted topark shelters available to the general public for use as emergency shelters. Whenexisting structures become unsafe or are no longer required for park purposes they willbe removed and may be replaced with public shelters as funds and priorities permit.
Three zone types have been identified for the park. One nature reserve zone includesall the lands and the inland water bodies of Mortimer Island, except for the LambtonCove Access Zone. No development is planned in this zone. The forces of nature will beallowed to function freely, particularly with respect to the wildlife ecology of thewoodland caribou population. The other nature reserve zones include the Mud LakeSite on Patterson Island and the Leadman Islands. The Mud Lake Site protects animportant caribou crossing area between two lakes, a research site and a caribou saltlick. The Leadman Islands protects a low-lying exposed island landscape and an aviannesting habitat. The natural environment zones include the waters of Lake Superior andmost of Patterson Island and the remaining islands located within the park boundary.The natural environment zones will provide low to moderate intensity recreationalopportunities, including hiking, back-country and shoreline camping and recreationalboating and scenic viewing on Lake Superior. All recreational and other developmentwill be carried out in such a manner as to minimize their effect on the natural andcultural resources.Five access zones have been identified to provide areas for shelters, group camping,anchorages, docks, interpretive and visitor entry control structures. They will serve asstaging areas to access the less developed interior of the islands. The old barge site willhouse the park office and staff accomodation.
Slate Islands will be managed according to provincial park policy. There will be nocommercial extraction of the natural resources from within the park. The naturalresources will be managed to protect park values and for public health and safety.Research activities that contribute to the knowledge of the natural and cultural historyand to park management will be encouraged. All research must be approved prior tocommencement.Sport fishing for lake trout constitutes the single greatest use of Slate Islands ProvincialPark at the present time. The fishery will be managed to maintain the lake troutpopulation and enhance the health of the fishery and the quality of the anglingrecreation.
Implementation of the management plan will involve resource protection, client servicesand the development of approved facilities. Implementation of the plan will be based onwork program planning and funding. The intent is to provide a logical, ordered approachto guide the implementation of the park management plan over the 20 year planningperiod.
The general public and interest groups were invited to participate in the planningprocess. Open houses were conducted to receive comment on the BackgroundInformation and Optional Plans document as well as the Preliminary Management Plan.Comments at both stages were similar, people wished to see a minimal level ofdevelopment, with a few amenities such as docks, anchorages, trails and primitivecampsites. The management plan maintains and outlines the commitment to very littledevelopment, high quality unstructured outdoor recreation, and the continued existenceof park shelters for emergency situations due to storms. The summary of publiccomment is available at the Terrace Bay District Office of the Ministry of NaturalResources.
PLAN DE GESTION DU PARC PROVINCIAL SLATE ISLANDS - RÉSUMÉ
Le parc provincial Slate Islands est un parc naturel situé sur le lac Supérieur, dans lecanton de Terrace Bay, a 13 km au sud-est de la yule. Il couvre 6 570 hectaresd’étendues terrestres et aquatiques, y compris le lac Supérieur.
Les îles Slate ont été désignées parc provincial par voie de règlement en février 1985après qu’une recommandation en ce sens eut été faite dans les Directives surl’aménagement du territoire du district de Terrace Bay. Les îles Slate sont reconnuespour leur écosystème peu complexe et une variété florale et faunique exceptionnelle.Bon nombre de caribous des forêts et de castors habitent dans les îles sans subirl’influence naturelle des prédateurs. Les effets de refroidissement du lac Supérieur ontpermis l’établissement d’une flore alpine plutôt rare. Les pentes escarpées et le sous-sol rocheux exposé témoignent d’une géologie complexe. Les îles offrent un très beaupanorama ainsi que d’excellentes possibilités de loisirs et présentent la fascinantehistoire de l’occupation et de l’utilisation qu’en a faite l’homme.
Aucune installation n’a encore été aménagée sur les îles. A l’heure actuelle, les seulsloisirs pratiqués par les habitants de la région et les visiteurs sont la navigation, iecamping et la pêche. Les îles Slate abritent aussi des voiliers et des bateaux depiaisance à moteur. Cinq bâtiments non autorisés sont présentement érigés dans leparc. La Couronne prendra possession de ces bâtiments et, s’ils sont sécuritaires, lesconvertira en abris d’urgence qui pourront être utilisés par les visiteurs. Lorsque cesbâtiments présenteront des risques et seront jugés inutiles au pare, us seront détruits etpourront être remplacés par des abris publics si les fonds et les priorités le permettent.
Trois types de zones ont été établis dans le parc. Une des réserves naturelles regroupetoutes les terres et les eaux intérieures de I’île Mortimer, à l’exception de la zoned’accès de Lambton Cove. Aucun aménagement n’est prévu dans cette zone. On neperturbera pas la nature, notamment I’écosystème de la population de caribous desforêts. Les autres réserves naturelles regroupent l’emplacement du lac Mud, sur l’îlePatterson, et les îles Leadman. L’emplacement du lac Mud abrite un sentier de caribousentre deux lacs, un lieu de recherche et un terrain salifère pour les caribous. Les îlesLeadman présentent un terrain plat et abritent une zone de nidification des oiseaux. Lesmilieux naturels regroupent les eaux du lac Supérieur, la majeure partie de île Pattersonet ies autres îles situées à l’intérieur des limites du parc. Les milieux naturels offrentdes possibilités de loisirs d’intensité faible à moyenne, notamment la randonnéepédestre, le camping dans l’arrière-pays, le camping riverain, la navigation de plaisanceet l’observation panoramique sur le lac Supérieur. Tous les travaux d’aménagementd’installations de ioisirs et autres seront effectués de façon à minimiser ieurs effets surles ressources naturelles et culturelles.
On a identifié cinq zones d’accès à des abris, des terrains de camping de groupe, despoints d’ancrage, des quais et des bâtiments d’interprétation et de contrôle desvisiteurs. Ces zones d’accès serviront de relais permettant d’accéder aux secteurs
moms développés des îles. Les bureaux du parc et les iogements du personnel serontsitués dans l’ancien bâtiment qui abritait un chaland.Le parc Slate Islands sera géré selon les politiques régissant les parcs provineiaux. Onne s’y livrera à aucune extraction commerciale des ressources naturelles et celles-ciseront gérées de manière à protéger les beautés du parc et la sante et la sécurité dupublic. On favorisera la mise sur pied d’activités de recherche qui contribuent àaméliorer les connaissanees de l’histoire naturelle et culturelle et la gestion du parc.Tous les travaux de recherche doivent être approuvés avant d’être entrepris. À l’heureactuelle, la pêche sportive au touladi est l’activité la plus populaire dans le parcprovincial Slate Islands. La gestion des pêches sera axée sur le maintien de lapopulation de touladis et sur l’amélioration de la sante des poissons et de la qualité dela pêche.
La mise en oeuvre du plan de gestion comportera la protection des ressources, leservice aux clients et l’aménagement des installations approuvées. La mise en oeuvredu plan dépendra de la planification et du financement du programme de travail. Onentend utiliser une approche logique et structurée pour orienter la mise en oeuvre duplan de gestion du parc pendant ia période de planification qui s’échelonnera sur 20ans.
Le public et les groupes d’intérêt ont été invites à participer au processus deplanification. On a tenu des journées d’accueil au cours desquelles on a recueilli descommentaires sur le document d’information et les plans optionnels ainsi que sur leplan de gestion préliminaire. Les commentaires reçus lors des deux étapes étaientsensiblement les mêmes; les gens désirent un développement minimal etl’aménagement de quelques installations comme des quais, des points d’ancrage, dessentiers de randonnée et des terrains de camping sauvage. Le plan de gestionmaintient et décrit l’engagement à n’effectuer qu’un minimum de travauxd’aménagement, à offrir des possibilités de loisirs de plein air non structurées et dehaute qualité et à maintenir les abris utilisés lors de situations d’urgence causées parles orages. On peut consulter le résumé des commentaires du public au bureau dedistrict du ministère des Richesses naturelles de Terrace Bay.
Table of Contents
1.0 INTRODUCTION.............................................................................................1
2.0 PARK CLASSIFICATION ................................................................................1
3.0 GOAL ..............................................................................................................3
4.0 OBJECTIVES..................................................................................................34.1 Protection ........................................................................................34.2 Recreation .......................................................................................34.3 Heritage Appreciation ......................................................................34.4 Tourism............................................................................................4
5.0 PARK BOUNDARY AND LAND TENURE ......................................................4
6.0 PARK ZONING................................................................................................4 6.1 Nature Reserve Zones....................................................................7
6.1.1 NR1Mud Lake Nature Reserve Zone .........................................7
6.1.2 NR2Leadman Islands Nature Reserve Zone..............................7
6.1.3 NR3Mortimer Island Nature Reserve Zone ................................7
6.2 Natural Environment Zones .............................................................8 6.2.1 NE1
Patterson Island Natural Environment Zone .......................8 6.2.2 NE2
Lake Superior Natural Environment Zone ...........................9 6.3 Access Zones ..................................................................................9
6.3.1 AlOld Barge Site Access Zone ...............................................9
6.3.2 A2Fisherman’s Harbour Access Zone...................................10
6.3.3 A3Lambton Cove Access Zone .............................................10
6.3.4 A4Sunday Harbour Access Zone ..........................................10
6.3.5 ASMcCoIl Island Access Zone...............................................10
7.0 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT .......................................................................117.1 Fisheries Management ..................................................................117.2 Wildlife Management .....................................................................117.3 Vegetation Management ...............................................................12
7.4 Landform Management .................................................................127.5 Cultural Resources Management ....................................................12
7.5.1 Archaeological Resources ............................................127.5.2 Historical Logging Resources .......................................137.5.3 Lighthouse Complex .....................................................137.5.4 Historical Mining Resources..........................................13
8.0 OPERATIONS POLICIES ............................................................................138.1 Visitor Services ................................................................................13
8.1.1 Park Information............................................................14 8.1.2 Interpretation.................................................................14 8.1.3 Recreation.....................................................................15
8.2 Recreation Management..................................................................158.3 Commercial Tourism Services .........................................................158.4 Research ......................................................................................168.5 Marketing ......................................................................................16
9.0 DEVELOPMENT ..........................................................................................17
10.0 IMPLEMENTATION...................................................................................1710.1 IMPLEMENTATION PHASES..........................................................17
10.1.1 Phase 1.............................................................................17 10.1.2 Phase 2.............................................................................19 10.1.3 Phase 3.............................................................................19
11.0 SUMMARY OF PUBLIC CONSULTATION.................................................19 11.1 Background Information & Optional Plans.....................................19 11.2 Preliminary Management Plan.......................................................19
REFERENCES....................................................................................................21
LIST OF FIGURES Follows page
Figure 1: Regional Setting ..............................................................................2Figure 2: Park Boundary.................................................................................5Figure 3: Park Zoning .....................................................................................6Figure 4: Development .................................................................................18
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1.0 INTRODUCTION
Slate Islands Provincial Park is located onLake Superior within the Corporation of theTownship of Terrace Bay, 13 kilometressoutheast of the townsite (see Figure 1).The community of Terrace Bay is about 220kilometres east of Thunder Bay onProvincial Highway 17.
The Slate Islands were established inregulation as a provincial park in February1985. (O.Reg. 45/85) This followed therecommendation made in the Terrace BayDistrict Land Use Guidelines that the SlateIslands receive provincial park status. TheLand Use Guidelines were approved inJune 1983 after an extensive publicconsultation process. Provincial Park statuswill ensure that the Slate Islands will beprotected as a unique natural area. It will bemanaged for the benefit of the people ofOntario, and visitors to the province, whomay use the islands for their healthfulenjoyment and appreciation for manygenerations to come.
The Slate Islands protect representativelandscapes and life science featurescharacteristic of Site district 5, within Siteregion 3W. These islands have long beenrecognized as possessing a simplifiedecosystem with a unique assemblage ofplant and animal species. Woodland caribouand beaver exist in high numbers withoutthe natural influence of predators. Thecooling effect in summer of the LakeSuperior waters have provided a niche forsome locally rare arctic disjunct alpineplants. The rugged slopes and exposedbedrock display a complex geologicalhistory. Two theories exist about the island’sorigin: volcanic or meteorite impact. Theislands are also very scenic, have excellentrecreational potential and display afascinating history of human occupation anduse. Extensive research on caribou, beaver,geological formation of the islands and florastarted long before the park was put intoregulation.
Park facilities have not yet been developedon the islands. Adjacent park facilities onthe mainland include: Rainbow FallsProvincial Park (about 26 kilometres west ofTerrace Bay on Highway 17); NeysProvincial Park (about 58 kilometres east ofTerrace Bay on Highway 17); and,Pukaskwa National Park (100 kilometreseast on the Lake Superior shoreline).
At present, the main recreational use of theSlate Islands is by local people and visitorsto the region, who are boating, camping andfishing. The Slate Islands also harboursailboats and cruisers that come primarilyfrom Thunder Bay, Ontario; Duluth,Minnesota; and Bayfield, Wisconsin. Thelevel of present use is not considered to besignificant, although, the yachting/cruiserboat traffic appears to be increasing.
The management plan will provide guidancefor the longterm protection, use, and orderlydevelopment of park resources. Themanagement plan also directs how resourcemanagement will be carried out, the level ofvisitor services to be provided, and themanner in which the plan will beimplemented over a twenty-year period.
2.0 PARK CLASSIFICATION
Slate Islands Provincial Park is classified asa natural environment park. It incorporatesoutstanding recreational landscapes withrepresentative natural features andhistorical resources to provide high qualityrecreational and educational experiences.
The natural environment classification forSlate Islands Provincial Park was confirmedthrough the District Land Use Guidelinesexercise. The Slate Islands incorporates allof the components that define this class ofpark. The need to strike a balance betweenthe provision of recreational opportunities,which include fishing, boating, wildlifeobservation and remote camping, andopportunities to appreciate the colourfulhistory of the area, with the protection of aunique natural environment, resulted in theselected classification.
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3.0 GOAL
The goal of Slate Islands Provincial Park is:
To protect significant geologicalfeatures, plant and animal species andcultural resources of the islands, toprovide a variety of outdoor recreationopportunities and to serve as an area forscientific study.
The Park forms part of the OntarioProvincial Parks System as establishedthrough the Parks System PlanningProgram and contributes to the provincialpark targets established in the Terrace BayDistrict Land
4.0 OBJECTIVES
4.1 Protection
To protect the provincially significantelements of the natural and culturallandscape of Ontario represented inSlate Islands Provincial Park.
The Slate Islands have a uniqueenvironment that contributes to theachievement of the parks system planningtargets outlined in the Terrace Bay DistrictLand Use Guidelines. The protectionobjective is achieved by including thefollowing features within the Slate IslandsProvincial Park:
Earth Science Representation -
• an example of tectonic activity in Pre-cambrian bedrock or a central uplift coneof a meteorite impact crater;
• raised beach ridges showing Nipissingand modem beach lines;
• rock platforms, stacks, shorebluffs andother erosional shoreline features of post-glacial times.
Life Science Representation -
• a unique faunal assemblage with theabsence of predators except the red fox,
including woodland caribou, beaver andsnowshoe hare;
• important native lake trout population;• unusual arctic disjunct and subalpine
plants.
Cultural Representation -
• the Northern Hunters and Fishers themewith theme segments representing thepeoples of the Iroquoian and Michiganzones;
• early geological exploration and minedevelopment;
• the commercial fishing era;• early logging history on the north shore of
Lake Superior.
Slate Islands Provincial Park will bemanaged to protect these features.
4.2 Recreation
To provide both developed andunstructured recreation opportunities foractivities such as camping, boating,sport fishing, wildlife viewing and back-country hiking.
The management direction will be tosupport low density use to ensure highquality experiences having minimal impacton the park environment. Although theTerrace Bay District Land Use Guidelinesdo not assign any targets for recreation, thispark will contribute to the District’s day useand backcountry travel opportunities.
4.3 Heritage Appreciation
To provide opportunities for explorationand appreciation of the outdoor naturaland cultural heritage of Ontario asrepresented in Slate Islands ProvincialPark.
Opportunities will be provided for structuredand unstructured heritage appreciationactivities through:
• visitor services programming;
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• constructing facilities that enhance theusers experience such as campsites andtrails;
• supporting research complementary tothe park.
The Sections under 8.1 Visitor Services listinterpretive themes.
4.4 Tourism
To provide Ontario’s residents and out-of-province visitors with opportunities todiscover and experience the distinctivegeological formations, fauna and flora ofthe Slate Islands Provincial Park.
Slate Islands Provincial Park protects aparticularly rich and diverse natural area.Several features of the Slate Islands areamong the most accessible representationof such features in the provincial parkssystem.
Attainment of the protection, recreation andheritage appreciation objectives for the parkwill ensure a high quality outdoorenvironment suitable for low intensitytourism purposes only.
5.0 PARK BOUNDARY AND LANDTENURE
Slate Islands Provincial Park has a totalarea of 6570 hectares. The waters of LakeSuperior account for about 2607 hectaresand the islands and inland waters about3963 hectares. The park boundary isgenerally located 400 metres inperpendicular distance from the high watermark of the Slate Islands and LeadmanIslands, including the water and land undersuch waters (see Figure 2). The lighthousecomplex at Sunday Harbour, comprisingsome 12 hectares, is owned by theGovernment of Canada and is not part ofthe park.
Should the Federal Government decide todispose of the property, the Ministry ofNatural Resources would consideracquisition for park purposes. The property
would be incorporated into the park if it wereobtained.
At the present time there are five structureslocated within the park without legalauthority. These consist of four cabins andancillary buildings (i.e. privies and sheds)and one houseboat. This is contrary to theProvincial Parks Regulations, which permitonly authorized structures in a ProvincialPark. However, the need to provide somesort of public shelters on the islands isrecognized. Consequently, the followingactions will be undertaken:
• tenure will not be granted to individualsfor recreational use of any structureswithin the park boundaries;
• the Crown will take possession of theexisting structures;
• existing structures which are consideredsafe for park use will be converted to parkshelters and will be available to thegeneral public;
• when existing structures within the parkbecome unsafe or are no longer requiredfor park purposes, they will be removed;
• as unsafe structures are removed newpublic shelters may be provided as fundsand priorities permit.
6.0 PARK ZONING
The zoning for Slate Islands Provincial Parkserves to identify and provide recognition tothe park features and attributes of provincialsignificance. The zones delineate areaswhere management direction will differ inorder to effect achievement of the park goaland objectives either by stressing resourceprotection or accommodating the range ofrecreational activity permitted in the park.
The park zoning illustrated in Figure 3generally reflects Optional Plan 2 presentedin the Background Information and OptionalPlans document released in February 1986.Changes have been made based on public
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comment and the need to more specificallydefine and justify the various zones.
There are no historical zones identified forthe Slate Islands Provincial Park, although,two significant archaeological features havebeen identified by the Ministry of Cultureand Communication. These sites will beprotected from development. Otherhistorical sites have been documented andwill also be protected.
The public recreation component typical ofmost development zones is found dispersedon the mainland through facilities providedat provincial parks, public access points andprivate campgrounds.
6.1 Nature Reserve Zones
Nature reserve zones protect significantearth and life science features which requiremanagement distinct from that in adjacentzones. The priority for nature reserve zonesis protection and research. Protection isensured through zoning and publiceducation concerning appropriate uses andthe enforcement of park regulations. Naturereserve zones provide quality opportunitiesfor low-intensity activities, such as hiking,viewing, photography and nature study.
Development permitted in these zonesincludes necessary signs, trails, minimalinterpretive facilities, and temporary facilitiesfor research and management.
6.1.1 NR1: Mud Lake NatureReserve Zone (14 ha)
This zone covers the area between MudLake and Peninsula Lake. It is about 14.1hectares in area.
The purpose of this zone is to provideprotection for the important caribou crossingarea between the two lakes and theresearch site and salt lick.
No structured recreational activities ordevelopment will be permitted to occur in
this zone. Approved research activities arepermitted. Limits of research will bedetermined by the park’s Vegetation andWildlife Management Plans, in compliancewith Provincial Parks Wildlife Managementpolicies. Details on research applicationsare outlined in Section 8.4.
6.1.2 NR2: Leadman Islands NatureReserve Zone (26 ha)
This zone includes the group of islandssituated approximately four kilometres eastof Mortimer Island.
The purpose of this zone is to provideprotection of the low-lying exposed islandlandscape, an area of active shorebirdnesting, examples of arctic flora speciesand island flora. The Leadman Islands haveareas of cobble and pebble beaches on thewest side and large under water rockterraces.
The vegetation association is influenced bythe wash zone from Lake Superior andranges from Arctic, Arctic-Boreal toCordilleran and Prairie. The islands willremain in their natural state where theforces of nature will operate unimpeded.
6.1.3 NR3: Mortimer Island NatureReserve Zone; (7 15.5 ha)
This zone includes all the lands and theinland waterbodies of Mortimer Island,except for the Lambton Cove access zone.
The purpose of this zone is to incorporate inthe park an area where the forces of natureare allowed to function freely, particularlywith respect to the wildlife ecology of thewoodland caribou population.
No development is proposed within thenature reserve zone.
Research activity can derive a baseline formeasurement of change in other areas ofthe park and on the mainland. Researchactivities related to woodland caribou hastaken place in this zone prior to the
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regulation of this provincial park. Futureresearch will be permitted with priorapproval from MNR. See Section 8.4 fordetails.
This zone protects representativelandscapes and life science featurescharacteristic of Site district 5, within Siteregion 3W.
One archaeological site, one historic siteand a mining adit are located in this zone.These sites will be protected fromincompatible uses.
This zone will provide limited opportunitiesfor unstructured backcountry recreation,such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenicviewing. No trail development is proposedand access and travel through the zone willbe off-trail.
No permanent or seasonal commercialtourism facilities will be permitted. Touristoperators will be permitted to take or sendtheir clientele into this zone with fullappreciation for its purpose andsignificance, and the lack of facilities andstructured recreational activity.
6.2 Natural Environment Zones
Natural environment zones emphasizeresource protection and include aestheticlandscapes in which there is minimumdevelopment required to support low-intensity, resource-based recreationalactivities, such as hiking, viewing,photography and nature study.
Development permitted within these Zonesincludes trails, necessary signs for routeidentification, minimal interpretive facilities,and simple facilities to support low-intensityrecreational activities.
6.2.1 NE1: Patterson Island NaturalEnvironment Zone (3,192 ha)
This zone includes most of the area ofPatterson Island and islands not in the
Nature Reserve. The zone consists of about3,084 hectares of land and 108 hectares ofinland waters.
The purpose of this zone is to protect arepresentative portion of the landscape witha minimum level of development permitted.This is to provide for low to moderateintensity recreational activity.
This zone provides protection of thewoodland caribou and beaver populationsand wildlife habitat. It will be an area ofmore intensive wildlife management activitywhich will comply with the Park’s WildlifeManagement Plan.
This zone protects representativelandscapes and life science featurescharacteristic of Site district 5, within Siteregion 3W.
One archaeological site, one historic siteand a mining adit are located in this zone.Management direction for this zone willensure that these sites are protected fromincompatible uses, while providing heritageappreciation opportunities. These willinclude wildlife viewing, geologicalinterpretation and cultural appreciation ofpre-historic native habitation, and themining, logging and commercial fishinghistory.
This zone will provide opportunities for lowto moderate intensity recreationalopportunities, including hiking and back-country and shoreline camping.Recreational use is to be encouraged in thiszone at a level and in a manner whichpromotes a high quality experience for allpark users, while respecting the need toprotect park values.
All recreational and other developments willbe carried out in such a manner as tominimize their effect on the natural andcultural resources. Existing trails will bemaintained and new trails developed toprovide access within the zone. A number ofinterior campsite locations will be developedto accommodate recreational use.
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Research projects which improve theMinistry’s ability to manage the naturalresources are encouraged in this zone. SeeSection 8.4 for details on research activities.
No permanent or seasonal commercialtourism facilities will be permitted. Touristoperators will be encouraged to take orsend their clientele into this zone with fullappreciation for its purpose andsignificance. The outfitting and guidingopportunities associated with day-userecreation and overnight camping activitywill be encouraged in this zone.
6.2.2 NE2: Lake Superior NaturalEnvironment Zone (2,565 ha)
This zone comprises all of the water, andthe lands under the waters of Lake Superiorwithin Slate Islands Provincial Park, exceptthose lands and waters included in theaccess and development zones.
The purpose of this zone is to providewater-based recreational opportunities suchas boating, angling and scuba diving, and toprotect and manage the lake trout fishery.This zone also allows for the regulation andcontrol of activities occurring on the waterand adjacent to the shorelines, and accessto the land base of the park.
Protection of the lake trout spawning bedswill be of primary importance in this zone.Projects intended to improve fisherieshabitat and/or productivity are permitted.This zone will also provide protection of theshoreline geological and life sciencefeatures.
This zone protects representativelandscapes and life science featurescharacteristic of Site district 5, within Siteregion 3W.
The zone will provide low-intensityrecreational boating and scenic viewingopportunities on Lake Superior.
Generally, no restrictions will be placed onanchoring in this zone and the Ministry will
be providing anchorages in certainlocations. Should problems of crowding orinterference with other uses develop inspecific locations, appropriate measures willbe implemented to resolve the problem.
Those areas outside of access zones will betreated as harbours of refuge offeringshelter to any craft seeking to escape fromstorms on Lake Superior.
No permanent or seasonal commercialtourism facilities will be permitted. Touristoperators will be permitted to take or sendtheir clientele into this zone with fullappreciation for its purpose andsignificance.
Charter boat activity is to be encouraged inthis zone.
6.3 Access Zones
Access zones provide access to a numberof recreational areas in the Park and serveas staging areas where minimum facilitiessupport use of the less developed naturalenvironment, wilderness and nature reservezones. Access zones provide relativelyintensive recreational activities and theirassociated facilities and services.
Development permitted within this Zoneincludes trails, visitor and entry controlstructures, basic day facilities, andorientation, interpretive, educational,research and management facilities.
6.3.1 Al: Old Barge Site AccessZone (6.5 ha)
This zone includes some of the waters ofMcGreevy Harbour, Jack’s Island, and apart of Patterson Island. The water area isabout 2.7 hectares. Included within the zoneare: the remains of the old barge; thecleared site of the old logging camp; andone unauthorized building.
This zone will provide access to the interiortrails of Patterson Island. The administrative
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headquarters, maintenance, research andvisitor facilities will be located in this zone.
The old barge will be removed as it isstructurally unsafe. The barge and thelogging campsite history will be told througha display at the site.
This zone will provide moderately intensiverecreation opportunities. Campsites, parkshelters, privies, firepits, docks andanchorages will be provided.
A concession agreement for boat and hikingequipment rentals may be permitted in thiszone. Tourist operators will be encouragedto take or send their clientele into this zone.Charter boat activity will be encouraged inthis zone.
6.3.2 A2: Fisherman’s Harbour AccessZone (3.8 ha)
This zone is generally defined as the watersof Fisherman’s Harbour and the adjacentland area 50 metres back from the highwater mark. The waters of the harbour areabout 1.3 hectares. The area hasmoderately high recreational potential and isconsidered an important park resource.
This zone will provide access tounstructured recreation and heritageappreciation activities in the naturalenvironment zone on Patterson Island.
This zone provides moderately intenserecreation opportunities. Campsites, parkshelters, firepits and privies will be providedin this zone.
No permanent or seasonal commercialtourism facilities will be permitted in thiszone.
6.3.3 A3: Lambton Cove AccessZone (7.6 ha)
This zone is located in Lambton Cove onMortimer Island. This zone generallyextends 50 metres back from the high watermark.
The purpose of this zone is to provide abase from which to access the naturereserve zone on Mortimer Island andservice a traditional level of use.
Recreational facilities in the form ofcampsites, park shelters, privies, firepitsand docks will be provided.
No permanent or seasonal commercialtourism facilities will be permitted.
6.3.4 A4: Sunday Harbour AccessZone (38 ha)
The zone is generally defined as the watersof Sunday Harbour and a campsite area atthe northeastern end of the harbour,extending 100 metres back from the highwater mark.
The purpose of this zone is to provideaccess to the heritage appreciationopportunities at the southern end ofPatterson Island.
Facilities in the form of campsites, parkshelters, firepits, privies, docks andanchorages are permitted. Anchoragesalready established by the light housekeeper will be utilized.
No permanent or seasonal commercialtourism facilities will be permitted. Charterboat activity is to be encouraged in thiszone.
6.3.5 A5: McColl Island AccessZone (1.5 ha)
The boundaries of this zone are generallydefined as an area on the southwest tip ofMcColl Island projecting 30 metres intoLake Superior to accommodate dockingfacilities.
The purpose of this zone is to provideaccess to McColl Island and campingopportunities.This zone will provide moderately intensiverecreation opportunities. Campsites, park
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shelter, privies, firepits and docks will beprovided.
No permanent or seasonal commercialtourism facilities will be permitted.
7.0 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
Resource management activitiesundertaken within Slate Islands ProvincialPark will conform to the policies for NaturalEnvironment class parks as stated in theOntario Provincial Parks Planning andManagement Policies document. Allresearch activities must comply with Section8.4 Research.
7.1 Fisheries Management
Sport fishing for lake trout constitutes thesingle greatest recreational use of SlateIslands Provincial Park at the present time.The fishery will continue to be managed inaccordance with the policies and regulationsprevailing in the area. The managementdirection stated in this plan is consistentwith the direction contained in; the LakeSuperior Strategic Fisheries Plan, 1986 -2000, and the Terrace Bay District FisheriesManagement Plan.
There will be emphasis placed onmonitoring and managing the lake troutpopulation to maintain and enhance thehealth of the fishery, and the quality ofangling recreation. Approved researchapplications will be required from TerraceBay District Office before any researchactivities are carried out. See Section 8.4.
Section 30, Schedule XV of the OntarioFishery Regulations state that commercialfishing is not permitted within 1.6 kms. ofthe Slate Islands.
The Ministry will periodically implement acreel census program to more accuratelyassess the current level of harvest. Theresults of this creel census will determinethe management strategies that may berequired. Should the harvest exceed thetotal allowable harvest, management
options will be reviewed, and the mostappropriate technique(s) will be employed toensure sustained yield.
Spawn collection may be permitted asrequired to meet a Provincial need forbroodstock, with a portion of the hatcheryreared fish from Slate Island spawn beingreleased back into park waters, dependenton area productivity and diseaseimplications.
Inland lakes and streams will be evaluatedfor consideration as to, present stockcompositions protecting existing fishspecies, or sub-species, and the opportunityto enhance a recreational fishery.
7.2 Wildlife Management
A wildlife management plan will beprepared:
• to protect and maintain the presence ofcaribou, beaver and other wildlife speciesin the park;
• to set direction for research activities; and• to develop strategies that will emphasize
wildlife viewing opportunities.
The objectives of the wildlife managementplan will comply with the Provincial ParksWildlife Management policies. MortimerIsland Nature Reserve will be excluded fromany wildlife management activities orprescriptions.
The status of various wildlife species will bedetermined on a regular basis. Knowledgemay be obtained by outside agenciesconducting research or by MNR conductedsurveys.
The capture and tagging of wildlife forresearch purposes is permitted. Wildlifespecies may be transferred for research orrestocking purposes. Research, tagging andtransferring of wildlife will require necessarypermits or approvals from the Terrace BayDistrict Office. See Section 8.4 for details.Sport hunting and commercial fur trappingwill not be permitted. Predator control
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through the most appropriate means ispermitted to protect existing wildlifepopulations. Domestic pets will bediscouraged. Existing Provincial ParkRegulations will be strictly enforced. Newregulations to prohibit domestic pets fromSlate Islands Provincial Park will be sought.
7.3 Vegetation Management
The commercial harvesting of timber will notbe permitted within the park.
Vegetation management may be carried outto protect or enhance caribou and beaver bycreating preferred habitat only on PattersonIsland, excluding the nature reserve zone.Techniques used may include non-suppression of wildfires, prescribed burningof standing timber or selective cutting ofstanding timber. In carrying out vegetationmanagement, unique plant species will beprotected. A vegetation management planwill be prepared for zone NE1 PattersonIsland. The plan will comply with the intentand objectives of this zone.
All park areas will be managed as anExtensive Fire Management Zone, where allwildfires that threaten life, property or parkvalues will receive a response designed tosave life and minimize park and propertydamage. This response could include fireattack, property protection and/orevacuation. Fire starts will be evaluated andmonitored in order to maximize theirbenefits. Such means of suppression asbulldozing and water bombing withchemicals will not be permitted except incritical situations.
Insect and disease infestations may becontrolled where significant park values arethreatened, otherwise, they will be allowedto run their natural course. Where control isdesirable, biological control will be usedwherever feasible, and it will be directed asnarrowly as possible to the specific insect ordisease, so as to have minimal effects onother components of the park’senvironment. No non-native species will beintroduced.
Approved research applications will berequired from Terrace Bay District Officebefore any research activities are carriedout. See Section 8.4.
7.4 Landform Management
Mineral exploration or extraction will not bepermitted.
Aggregate extraction will not be permitted.Where aggregate is required for parkpurposes it will have to be brought in fromoutside the park.
The mining adits on Patterson Island andMortimer Island will be fenced to preventpublic access. Access for geologicalresearch will be permitted provided aresearch application has been approved.See section 8.4 for details.
7.5 Cultural Resources Management
The cultural resources which have beenidentified include:
• two archaeological sites (Mortimer Islandand Sunday Harbour);
• the sites of two former logging camps(Logging Camp Lake and PeninsulaLake);
• remains of an old barge and a loggingcampsite (McGreevy Harbour);
• remnants of coal docks and coal yardfrom 1930’s, (McColl Island);
• two mining adits (Patterson and MortimerIslands) and
• lighthouse operation at Sunday Harbour(not in park)
Approved research applications will berequired from Terrace Bay District Officebefore any research activities are carriedout. See Section 8.4.
7.5.1 Archaeological Resources
The archaeological sites are two smallcampsites representative of the TerminalWoodland cultural period. Both sites areundisturbed. The sites are significant
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because they indicate the lake-faring skillsof the native inhabitants. There is alsoevidence of foreign influences, i.e. anIroquoian influence at the Sunday Harbourlocation and a Michigan influence at theMortimer Island site.
Archaeologists of the Ministry of Culture andCommunications have indicated that morework should be done on the islands andspecifically on the identified sites.
The sites will be managed to ensure thatthey are protected from incompatible uses.The following strategies will be taken toprotect the identified sites:
• no recreational developments will be builtwithin 100 metres;
• the locations will not be specificallypinpointed for the public.
Further surveys of the islands by theMinistry of Culture and Communications willbe encouraged, to identify any additionalsites. Excavation and disturbance of thesites will only be permitted byrepresentatives of, or persons authorizedby, the Ministry of Culture andCommunications.
7.5.2 Historical Logging Resources
Logging activities occurred on the SlateIslands in the 1930’s. Prior to 1935, timberharvesting was carried out, and camps wereestablished on the islands. After 1935, theislands were used as booming grounds forthe trans-shipment of timber to the UnitedStates. The campsites, remains of an oldbarge, coal docks, and old roads, areevidence of this era. These featuresrepresent an important part of the history ofthe park.
The following management strategies willbe implemented:
• the locations will be protected fromincompatible uses which could alter ordestroy the site; and,
• excavation of the sites should be carriedout by the Ministry of Culture andCommunications in order to rescue andpreserve artifacts.
7.5.3 Lighthouse Complex
A lighthouse was first established on theSlate Islands in 1902. The present locationis not part of the park, however it is ofinterest to park users. The lighthouse isowned and operated by the FederalGovernment.
7.5.4 Historical Mining Resources
Two sites that represent the mining historyof the Slate Islands are mining adits fromthe early twentieth century. The adits arehazardous areas which could result in injuryto unsuspecting park users. Consequently,steps such as fencing and/or signage will betaken to warn people of the potentialhazards. If the sites become part of theinterpretive program, more elaborate safetyprecautions may have to be taken.
8.0 OPERATIONS POLICIES
A Park Operations Strategy will be preparedto provide park staff with the necessaryinformation required to operate the park ona day-to day basis. In addition to addressingthe operations policies which follow, thestrategy will include such topics as budget,staffing, maintenance schedules,enforcement and emergency services. Theprovisions of the strategy will be consistentwith the approved Ontario Provincial ParksOperating Standards, and will be reviewedannually and updated as required.
8.1 Visitor Services
The primary objective of the visitor servicesprogram will be to orient park visitors to thenatural, educational and recreationalattributes of Slate Islands Provincial Park.The level of visitor services will be at self-use including publications and displaypanels to deliver park information, resource
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interpretation, recreational skills and parkmanagement messages.
8.1.1 Park Information
A public information program for parkvisitors will be established. A park map willbe produced to enable users to safelyexplore and use the islands. Visitors will beadvised to exercise caution regarding safetyhazards. Information will be presentedcautioning visitors regarding travel on LakeSuperior, particularly as it pertains to severeweather conditions.
A “leave no trace” attitude will be promotedin order to minimize human impact on thepark environment. Information may also begiven concerning appropriate humaninteraction with wildlife.
Park literature will inform visitors about thecommercial services and attractions that areavailable in the area to enhance their stay,and to generate local tourism benefits.
8.1.2 Interpretation
The major interpretive themes for the parkare outlined below. All themes incorporateand reflect the island character of the parkand the influences and effects of LakeSuperior.
-Island Geology, Geological Formations andGeomorphology: The Slate Islands containexcellent examples of rocks formed in abroad range of volcanic and intrusiveenvironments. In addition, there is abundantevidence of a complex metamorphic andstructural history.
Within a regional and provincial context, thegeology of the Islands is significant. Localgeneration of earth systems or mechanismshave resulted in an interesting and intriguingstratigraphic succession of volcanic rocksand associated breccias. The occurrence ofshatter cone features in island rocks issignificant as they may support thecontroversial theory that the Slate Island
structure is the result of a hypervelocity(meteorite) impact.
Differential erosion since glacial time hasresulted in a very unique coastal shorelinemarked by precipitous walls, rock juttingpoints, pebble and cobble beaches.
-Island Flora: Island vegetation reflects thecharacteristics of the Lake Superior sectionof the Boreal (northern) forest. In addition tospecies characteristic of the northern forest,the island’s exposed rocky promontoriesprovoked habitat for a wide variety oflichens and a number of arctic-alpinespecies. A small colony of Devil’s club(Oplopanax horridus.), a plant that isconsidered rare in Ontario, is located onone of the islands.
-Island Fauna (Woodland Caribou/Beaver):The island habitat presents a predator freeenvironment for a number of prey species,specifically woodland caribou and beaver.
Caribou may at times exist at a density of 7to 11 per square kilometre, the highestdensities in North America. In the absenceof predators, the caribou populations haveexperienced a series of boom-bust cycles,the most recent bust having occurred duringthe winter of 1989-90, when caribounumbers fell from a high of 600 in the fall of1989 to approximately 100 in the spring of1990.
Both the caribou and beaver have beeninfluenced by and profoundly influenced thevegetative mosaic of the islands. Theinterplay between the animals and theirenvironment as well as the dynamics of thecaribou and beaver populations will bemajor themes in the park’s visitor servicesprogram.
-Island Fisheries: The shelter afforded bythe Slate Islands offer spawning beds forLake Superior populations of Lake Trout.
-Island History: The theme of humanhabitation on the Slates will be exploredthrough the off-site interpretation of the
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archaeological features, as well as themany remnants of past logging, mining andfishing operations.
Information will be presented in such a wayas to intensify the feeling of isolation andthe grandeur which is so readily perceivedin the island landscape. Interpretation willbe primarily self-directed through the use ofpublished material and static displays whereappropriate.
8.1.3 Recreation
Recreation information will acquaint parkvisitors with the recreational attributes of thepark and the skills required for minimumimpact use of the park. The park map willserve, as the basic information for thispurpose. With improved skills, visitors willmake better use and enjoyment of the parkwhile minimizing their impact on theenvironment.
8.2 Recreation Management
Presently, it is not economically feasible tocollect park fees through personal servicefee collection. Self-serve collection boxesmay be placed at park access points or parkfacility locations.
Campfires will only be permitted inestablished fireplaces. No standing trees,alive or dead, may be cut for firewood, andfirewood cutting will be limited to dead,fallen-down trees, or utilization of washed-up timber along the shoreline.
While continuing to provide opportunities forunstructured recreation, the Slate Islandswill provide structured opportunities throughthe minimal development of trails,campsites, docks, shelters and anchorages.A Recreation Management Plan will beprepared to determine the phasing ofcampsite development, the configurationand route of trails, to accommodateextended (overnight) and day hikes. Trailroutes will avoid sensitive or critical culturalor natural areas (habitats); provideopportunities to see wildlife, explore
geological and geomorphological featuresand access natural vistas. Blinds or wildlifeobservation areas will be incorporated intothe trail plans to enhance visitoropportunities to observe caribou andbeaver. Trail construction standards will bedesigned to meet the needs of the intendeduser group. Trail locations (Figure 4) areapproximate.
Camping areas will be designated tominimize vista impact and located toachieve a desirable distribution of interiorand shoreline use and to provide a varietyof camping alternatives.
The docks and anchorages will enhance theboating opportunities through structuredfacilities. The public may anchor anywherealong the shoreline.
The shelters located at various campsitesare intended for use as emergency refugeon a temporary basis. Extended use is to bediscouraged.
Motor powered watercraft and aircraft willrepresent the only forms of mechanicaltransportation permitted. Permits arerequired to authorize aircraft landings withinthe park. As fee collection is initiated boatswill require a camping or daily vehiclepermit.
Other controls may be required to protectthe park environment from inappropriateuses and overuse, to ensure that visitorsenjoy high quality experiences. Suchcontrols will be gradually phased in, anddirected at resolving specific concerns.
The preparation of a RecreationManagement Plan for Patterson Island willdetermine the recreational and interpretiveopportunities for users of power and sailcraft as well as for canoeists and seakayakers.
8.3 Commercial Tourism Services
Disposition of land within the park forcommercial tourism purposes will not be
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permitted. Major commercial facilities toservice the park will be encouraged on themainland.
Minimal commercial docking facilities andboat and hiking equipment rental servicesmay be permitted at the Old Barge Site(Zone Al) through a concession agreement.
8.4 Research
Research that will contribute to theknowledge of natural and cultural historyand to park management will beencouraged. As well the park’s earth andlife science attributes make it well-suited asan area for group field study and outdooreducation.
Small groups with a particular interest in theresources of the Slate Islands will beencouraged to visit the park. Collectionsand/or sampling may be approved undercertain circumstances. Group use will bemonitored, and if adverse environmental orvisitor impacts are detected, stricter controlsmay be put in place and measures may bedeveloped to improve facilities for group useor mitigate the impacts. The curricula andteaching will be the responsibility of theteacher or group leader; however, resourceinformation will be available from Ministrystaff.
All research including MNR programs andother government agencies and ministriesmust be approved and conducted inaccordance with the Parks and RecreationalAreas Branch policy concerning research inprovincial parks. All research must conformto the objectives of the Park ManagementPlan and the prescriptions of the companionPark Wildlife and Vegetation ManagementPlans. As directed by policy for ResearchActivities in Provincial Parks and ParkReserves, all research proposals must bedirected to the District Manager in TerraceBay.
A research area of interest will continue tobe the study of caribou and beaver
populations and the interaction of herbivoreand plant species. High numbers of caribouand beaver allows for increased observationopportunities that permits behavioral studythat would be difficult to get in most borealforest locations.
Research to improve the understanding ofthe geological formations found on the SlateIslands, particularly with respect to theorigin of the Island complex, i.e. volcanic ormeteorite impact., is to be encouraged.
There are also opportunities to continueresearch on the existing flora, including thearctic disjunct plant species and the speciesassociated with habitat and food sources forwildlife.
Two Indian campsites have been examinedfrom the Terminal Woodland cultural periodand there is interest in more archaeologicalstudy of the islands by the Ministry ofCulture and Communications.
Fisheries research, both of the lake trout,and of the fish species that may be presentin inland waters would also be supported.
8.5 Marketing
A marketing plan will be prepared for thepark in accordance with established Ministrypolicy and procedures, and consistent withthe North Central Region MarketingStrategy. The park marketing plan will:
- Identify recreational and heritageappreciation opportunities and activities thatare most appropriate to the uniquecharacter and sensitive nature of the islands
- Identify the level(s) and location(s) ofvisitor facilities, services andinformation/interpretation programs that will:effectively protect the heritage resourcesand secluded character of the islands;support and encourage appropriaterecreational and heritage appreciationactivities; and inform park visitors, prior toand during their visit of the inherent dangers
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of travel on Lake Superior and the self-sufficiency requirements of island visits.
- Identify opportunities for local tourismoperators to provide basic services(supplies, transportation, equipment,accommodation) and information to parkvisitors or perspective park visitors.
-Recommend promotional initiativestargeted to specific local, provincial, nationalor international user or activity groups.
9.0 DEVELOPMENT
Development will be implemented throughwork program planning based on priorityand subject to the availability of funds. Alldevelopment will be carried out inaccordance with approved Site andDevelopment Plans which detail thelocation, type and extent of developmentpermitted.
The development of facilities will only occurin the access, and natural environmentzones as follows:
• Access Zone A-l: Old Barge Site• 5-10 campsites• 2-4 shelters• privies• picnic tables and fireplaces• park storage and office facilities• research facilities• minimal commercial docking
facilities and boat rental servicesmay be considered
• dock and anchorages•Access Zone A-2: Fisherman’s Harbour• 2-3 campsites• 1-2 shelters• privies• picnic tables and fireplaces• dock
•Access Zone A-3: Lambton Cove• 2-4 campsites• privies• picnic tables and fireplaces• dock
• Access Zone A-4: Sunday Harbour• 2-3 campsites• 1-2 shelters• privies• picnic tables and fireplace• anchorages
• Access Zone A-5: McColl Island• 1-2 campsites• 1 shelter• privies• picnic tables and fireplace• dock
• Natural Environment Zone NE- 1:Patterson Island• 6-12 campsites• privies• picnic tables and fireplaces• approximately 40 kilometres ofhiking trails
• Natural Environment Zone NE-2: LakeSuperior• anchorages
The locations of the proposeddevelopments are shown in Figure 4.Development will be phased in as outlinedin Appendix A.
10.0 IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation of the management plan willinvolve resource protection, client services,and the development of approved facilities.It will be based on work program planningand funding. The intent of the strategy is toprovide a logical, ordered approach to guidethe implementation of the park managementplan over the 20 year planning period.
To be effective and efficient there needs tobe communication and cooperation withother public agencies and private groupsand individuals to satisfy the intents statedin the plan.
10.1 IMPLEMENTATION PHASES
10.1.1Phase 1
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19
Completion of this phase will remove safetyhazards, initiate resource planning andprovide basic facilities:
• remove old barge• remove old houseboat• prepare a Patterson Island Recreation
Management Plan and beginconstruction of first phase campsite,shelters, docks and privies in accesszones and hiking trails
• protect significant park features• replace research and park management
facilities• remove or replace existing structures
with park shelters• prepare an information program for park
visitors including displays and maps
10.1.2 Phase 2
Completion of phase 2 will continue toprovide park facilities and encompass parkresource plans
• encourage appropriate researchactivities
• install park signs for information• prepare resource plans i.e. wildlife,
vegetation, marketing• construct second phase campsites,
shelters, docks and privies in accesszones
• construct anchorages• construct second phase hiking trails and
interior campsites• prepare park operating strategy• construct park office and storage
facilities• prepare an information program for park
visitors including displays and maps
10.1.3 Phase 3
Completion of this phase will finalizedevelopment of park facilities and provide avisitor services program
• prepare an information program for parkvisitors including displays and maps
• complete campsites, shelters, docksand privies in access zones
• complete trails and interior campsites• complete anchorages
11.0 SUMMARY OF PUBLICCONSULTATION
The management planning process hasprovided Ministry staff, concernedorganizations and the general public withthe opportunity to identify significant issuesand discuss possible solutions.
11.1 Background Information &Optional Plans
In January and February of 1986, the publicwas invited to review and comment on theBackground Information and Optional Plansdocument for the Slate Islands ProvincialPark. Informal talks were held at Marathonand Red Rock with the local fish and gameclubs. Public meetings were held at TerraceBay.
11.2 Preliminary Management Plan
Notices were placed in local newspapers inTerrace Bay/Schreiber, Marathon, Nipigon,and Thunder Bay to offer a review andsolicit comments on the preliminarymanagement plan. A public informationcentre was held in the Terrace Bay DistrictOffice on November 13, 1986. Copies of thepreliminary management plan were alsomailed out to 132 groups and individualswho indicated interest and/or hadresponded earlier in the planning exercise.
The following is a summary of the mainpoints of concern raised during the publicreview of the Preliminary Management Planfor the Slate Islands Provincial Park.
Mineral Exploration and Development
The majority of the people who commentedin this regard, were opposed to any form ofmineral exploration or extraction taking
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place. The strongest comments for thisdevelopment were received from the miningfraternity. The decision of Cabinet in 1988not to allow any mineral exploration orextraction in provincial parks has beenreflected in this document.
Wildlife Management
A controlled harvest of caribou wassuggested as an acceptable form ofpopulation management. However, otherresponses were opposed to this activitytaking place. One response suggestedpredators not immediately be controlled ifthey should make their way to the islands.Instead, the caribou population should bemonitored.
Fisheries Management
Public comments urged increasedprotection for the lake trout populationaround the Slate Islands either by strongerregulations under the Game and Fish Act orby enlarging the boundary of the park to1600 metres from the islands to match thenon-commercial fishing zone.
Park Facility Development
Most responses favoured minimaldevelopment for the Slate Islands. Specificsuggestions were made for the carefulplanning of trails and campsites to haveregard for use made by hikers and boaters.Mention was also made about the need fora better launching site on the mainland toaccess the Slate Islands Provincial Park.
Commercial Tourism Development
One response suggested theunderutilization of the resource would occurif a lodge facility were not developed in thepark.
Vegetation Management
A suggestion was made to controlvegetation by the use of fire.
21REFERENCES
1. Bergerud, A.T., Butler, H.E., TheUnusual Story of the Slate IslandsCaribou; Nature Canada, vol. 7number 1, Jan./Mar. 1978.
2. Billings, M.D., Slate IslandsEnvironmental Planning Series EarthScience Report, 1974; OMNRDivision of Parks, North CentralRegion, 1974.
3. Dalton, W.J. Background Report forthe Slate Island Provincial ParkManagement Plan (unpubl.);prepared for the Ontario Ministry ofNatural Resources, Aug., 1985.
4. Englebert, P., Newton, B., Arthurs,D. North Central ArchaeologicalSurvey, 1974; prepared for MNR,Division of Parks, Historical SitesBranch, 1974.
5. Euler, D., Timmerman, H.R., Snider,J.B. The Slate Islands, OntarioMinistry of Natural Resources,(unpubl.), 1975.
6. Goodier, J.L. Native Lake Trout(Salvelinus Namaycush) Stocks inCanadian Waters of Lake SuperiorPrior to 1955; Prepared for OMNR,1981.
7. Goodier, J.L. The Fish and Fisheriesof Canadian Lake Superior; Institutefor Environmental Studies,University of Toronto, 1982.
8. McGregor, C.A. The Slate Islands -Environmental Planning Series LifeScience Report, 1974; OMNRDivision of Parks, North CentralRegion, 1974.
9. McKay, G.A., Crowe, R.B., Baker,W.M. The Tourist and OutdoorRecreation Climate of Ontario;
Environment Canada, vol. 1,Objectives and Definition ofSeasons, Publications in AppliedMeteorology REC-1-73; prepared forMinistry of Industry and Tourism,Prov. Of Ontario, by AtmosphericEnvironment Service, Dept. of Env.Canada, Toronto, 1973.
10. Noble, Terry. Ontario NatureReserves Program - Life ScienceInventory Check Sheet. SlateIslands. OMNR, North CentralRegion, January 23, 1978.
11. Ontario Provincial Parks Planningand Management Policies: Ministryof Natural Resources, 1978.
12. Provincial Parks Act, RevisedStatutes of Ontario, 1980.
13. Sage, R.P. Mineral Potential of theSlate Islands and Lake SuperiorLand Use Plan, Ontario Division ofMines, Ministry of NaturalResources, Jan 1975.
14. Sage, R.P., Ontario GeologicalSurvey Open File Report 5435Geology of the Slate Islands,Ministry of Natural Resources, 1983.
15. Slate Islands Provincial Park,Background Information andOptional Plans, Ontario Ministry ofNatural Resources, 1986.
16. Terrace Bay District Land UseGuidelines, Ontario Ministry ofNatural Resources, 1983.
