Image: A group of recreationalists leisurely tubing down the Margaree River, in Nova Scotia.
Photo credit: Nova Scotia Environment
Canadian Heritage Rivers offer a variety of recreational activities that attract numerous visitors, often year-round. From white-water paddling to guided snowmobile tours, these sites offer something for everyone. However, the increasing popularity of these activities on the rivers presents numerous challenges. Sustainable recreation solutions are needed to ensure these natural wonders are preserved for future generations.
Challenges in Sustainable Recreation
The influx of visitors on rivers and their shorelines can lead to a variety of issues. One of the primary concerns is environmental degradation and impacts to aquatic ecosystem health.
Many river access sites across the country have increasingly experienced challenges with vegetation trampling, garbage accumulation, vandalism and human waste management. In addition to trampling and erosion from recreational hikers, rivers and shorelines can be impacted by the use of all-terrain vehicles in prohibited areas. Increased visitation can also lead to the formation of new trails, in part due to the rise and usage of wayfinding apps.
Increased recreation also brings with it a heightened risk of introducing newcomer species to river systems. These species typically are transported from one body of water to another on recreational equipment and can be accidentally released into new environments by humans. Species who are commonly kept as pets, such as goldfish or turtles, may also be released by owners into waterbodies. This practice is both illegal and harmful to ecosystems.
Finally, water quality can be impacted by recreational use because of increased sedimentation and erosion, as well as the introduction of contaminants from garbage and human waste.
Sustainability Successes
A shift towards sustainable recreation is crucial for preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of our Heritage Rivers. Despite the challenges, there are positive trends in low-impact and sustainable recreation because of monitoring programs, community engagement, and infrastructure improvements happening along Heritage Rivers across the country.
The rise of low-impact activities such as pack-rafting allows visitors to enjoy these sites without causing harm to the environment. Invasive species prevention programs and regular campsite monitoring have minimized impacts to rivers and their shorelines.
Community engagement is a vital component of sustainable recreation. Public education programs help raise awareness about the cultural, natural, and recreational values of these sites. Infrastructure improvements also play a significant role in supporting sustainable recreation. New boat and kayak launch sites and the placement of outhouses at campsites have improved recreational access and waste management facilities. Infrastructure that supports sustainable use, such as installing boardwalks to protect wetlands, has also proven to be highly successful at preventing impacts to sensitive ecosystems.
Staying Connected
While recreational activities in and around Heritage Rivers offer numerous benefits and enjoyment of nature, it is essential to balance these benefits with sustainable and effective management practices, community engagement and infrastructure improvements. By sharing knowledge and exchanging ideas throughout our networks, we can continue to turn challenges into sustainable recreation success stories.