March 9, 2020 Rocky Mountain House, Alberta Parks Canada Agency
The Management Plan for Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site was tabled in Parliament on February 21. Reviewed every 10 years, management plans for Parks Canada places are a requirement of the Parks Canada Agency Act and guide the management of national parks, national historic sites and national marine conservation areas.
The updated plan for Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site outlines the following key objectives:
- Demonstrate leadership in reconciliation by providing opportunities for greater collaboration with Indigenous peoples and integrating their perspectives in the overall site presentation and knowledge.
- Ensuring the long-term protection and maintenance of the archaeological sites, viewscapes and natural resources which contribute to the commemorative integrity of the site and its historic values.
- Maintaining and improving the high-quality visitor experience.
National historic sites reflect the rich and diverse heritage of our nation. Parks Canada is committed to a network of national heritage places that celebrate Indigenous peoples, their histories, and cultures, as well as their special relationship with the lands and waters.
The management plan for Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site was based on input from Métis and First Nations organizations, regional residents, partners and stakeholders, the tourism industry, and provincial government representatives, as well as visitors past and present. Through this management plan, Parks Canada will protect an important example of Canada's cultural heritage, engage and collaborate with Indigenous peoples, and provide an opportunity for Canadians to experience and discover history in new and innovative ways.
The Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site Management Plan is available on the Parks Canada website at: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/lhn-nhs/ab/rockymountain/info/gestion-management-2018
Additional multimedia
Quotes
"Parks Canada places belong to all Canadians. They represent the best that Canada has to offer and tell the stories of who we are, including the histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples. I would like to thank everyone who contributed to the management plan that will help shape the future of this treasured place. As the Minister responsible for Parks Canada, I applaud this collaborative effort to ensure Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site can be enjoyed for generations to come."
The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada
Quick facts
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Archaeological research indicates that Indigenous peoples have occupied and used the confluence area of the North Saskatchewan and Clearwater rivers where Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site is located for thousands of years.
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Rocky Mountain House was designated as a national historic site for its role in the historic fur trade; its association with David Thompson and exploration toward the west; and its association with the Blackfoot Nations, particularly the Piikani.
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Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site is open seven days per week from May through to Labour Day and four days per week throughout September. Within the community of Rocky Mountain House and within the David Thompson tourism corridor, the national historic site is a popular attraction with growing visitation and a unique heritage camping program.
