New plan to enhance canal's tourism, infrastructure tabled at parliament

NEWS RELEASE
PARKS CANADA
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National historic sites reflect the rich and varied heritage of our nation, and the Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that all these sites are protected for generations to come.

The new management plan for the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site was recently tabled in Parliament, and outlines the following key strategies:

• Rehabilitate and restore infrastructure to build the foundation for the site’s future;
• Strengthen relationships with First Nation and Métis partners to better tell the story of the site; and
• Enhance the experience at the site to increase visitation and create a vibrant community space.

The plan was developed through public consultation and based on input from local residents and organizations, visitors, stakeholders, partners, and Indigenous communities of the Sault Ste. Marie area. Through this management plan, Parks Canada is meeting its promise to protect and share Canada’s cultural heritage, while also providing an opportunity for Canadians to experience and discover our diverse history in new and exciting ways.

The new plan comes at a great time as the Sault Ste. Marie Canal will be celebrating 125 years of Great Lakes shipping history and Canadian heritage in 2020.

It will help guide the management of the site over the next ten years. Canadians from all walks of life are encouraged to visit not only the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site during this milestone year but all national historic sites from coast to coast to coast as they represent the very best Canada has to offer.

“Parks Canada’s places belong to all Canadians and offer truly Canadian experiences. As Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie, I applaud this collaborative effort and thank everyone who contributed to the management plan that will help protect and share the story of the Sault Ste. Marie Canal national historic site,” said Terry Sheehan, Member of Parliament for Sault Ste. Marie.

Quick Facts

• Reviewed every 10 years, management plans are a legislative requirement of the Canada National Parks Act and guide the management of Parks Canada’s places.

• The lock at the Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site was the first in the world to operate using electricity.

• The Sault Ste. Marie Canal National Historic Site welcomes an average of 150,000 visitors, both land based and water based, each season from May to October.

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