Ontario Parks Is Partnering With First Nations To Operate Mississagi Provincial Park
As of January 15th, 2023 the Ontario Government partnered with the newly formed Mississagi Park Foundation to maintain and operate Mississagi Provincial Park
“Our government is proud to partner with the City of Elliot Lake, Serpent River and Mississauga First Nations to support our provincial park system which will help build stronger communities. Mississagi Provincial Park is one of Ontario’s best-kept secrets with a rugged landscape of ancient hills, and valleys with sparkling blue lakes ideal for fishing or canoeing, and I encourage everyone to come and enjoy all it has to offer.”
This innovative agreement for the operation of Mississagi Provincial Park by the Mississagi Park Foundation, comprised of the City of Elliot Lake, Serpent River First Nation and Mississauga First Nation, will bring new tourism and other economic benefits to the local economy, as all three partners share in the employment opportunities.
“This initiative is a win-win for Ontario Parks visitors and local First Nations who will share in the economic benefit of operating this important recreational space. I would like to acknowledge the hard work that has gone into the creation of the Mississagi Park Foundation, and I encourage all Ontarians to visit this outstanding park and experience local Indigenous culture.”
Mississagi Provincial Park is located in the Penokean Hills, within the Robinson Huron Treaty territory and the traditional territory of the Anishinaabek, (about 25 kilometres north of Elliot Lake) and offers seven hiking trails of varying duration and difficulty levels, rustic and backcountry camping, lakes for canoeing and kayaking, excellent trout fishing and more.
“Years of hard work and determination have resulted in the formation of the Mississagi Park Foundation, an effort that will allow all three communities to continue to provide recreational activities within this unique landscape both now and for the next Seven Generations. We will ensure all those who visit the park will not only experience its great beauty but will also gain a deeper and more meaningful understanding of the Anishinaabe culture when they leave.”
In celebration of this new operating agreement, the Mississagi Park Foundation has released a redesigned park crest. The new crest predominately features a thunderbird, a mythological creature routed in Indigenous storytelling and tradition, the Helenbar Lookout, a unique geographic element in the park, as well as shades of orange, symbolizing the ongoing journey of truth and reconciliation.
“Serpent River First Nation looks forward to working in partnership with our neighbours and relatives. The Mississagi Park Foundation will provide a strong base to strengthen our relationships, and make Mississagi Provincial Park a premier destination for relaxation and enjoying the natural environment. Visitors will experience the best the North Shore has to offer.”
Banner image of Mississagi Provincial Park is from Ontario Parks.
