‘We hold no jurisdiction over the park and its land,’ warden says

Barrie Examiner January 24, 2013

Without an opportunity to purchase Springwater Provincial Park, the County of Simcoe can’t pick up operating expenses of the 193-hectare facility, located north of Barrie, says Warden Cal Patterson.

In recent weeks, the county and Springwater Township have been brought into the conversation by residents and the media regarding the fate of the park. Many are calling on the county to take at least some of the responsibility for the park closure, while others have insisted the municipalities have the capacity to “save” the park, but are refusing to.

“This couldn’t be more incorrect,” said Patterson. “We hold no jurisdiction over the park and its land, and to this point have not been included in the decision-making process. The decision was made wholly by the Province of Ontario, and they have made it very clear: Springwater Park is going to close.”

The decision by the province to close the park is very unfortunate for Simcoe County and its residents, Patterson added.

“But our hands are tied. We can only hope the province reconsiders the closure with our offer to help promote the park encouraging better utilization from residents and visitors.”

The Ministry of Natural Resources’ decision to change 10 provincial parks, including Springwater Park, to non-operating status was based on budget assessments compared with park visitation and operational feasibility.

The park has seen a steady decline in usage since 2008 and was the only park in the south to be targeted.

Patterson said the county is concerned about the stewardship of the land and this led to a meeting with the province and Springwater Township with hopes a solution could be found to keep the gates open.

One suggestion would be to put Springwater among the small catchment of municipalities that have entered a pilot project with the province; however, Springwater Park does not meet the criteria put forth in that particular agreement, including a lack of overnight camping and its proximity to Earl Rowe, Awenda, and Craigleith provincial parks.

“The county understands residents’ dismay over the province’s decision to change the status of Springwater Provincial Park to a non-operating park but we also understand the province’s position. Springwater Park and the animals it houses have become a part of many local families’ cherished memories,” said Patterson. “Without the province willing to sell the land, under the current operating model there are no viable financial options for county involvement.

“Unfortunately, it seems Springwater Provincial Park and its wildlife attractions are under-utilized,” added Patterson.

As far as land use, the Springwater Park will continue to be protected under the Provincial Parks and Conservations Reserves Act and will not be sold.

According to the Ontario Parks website (www.ontarioparks.com/english/spri.html), when it becomes a non-operating park April 1, there will be no on-site staff and facilities will not be maintained. Visitors can continue to enjoy the park for day-use, free of charge; however, the park will be gated and can only be accessed on foot.