Reinstate 'one boat, one lake' policy
Petitioners ask the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture to reverse Parks Canada’s ban on motorized watercraft at Clear Lake and reinstate the previously announced 'one boat, one lake' policy. The government responds that Parks Canada limited motorboat use to protect Clear Lake from zebra mussels and is preparing a new park management plan with stakeholders.
Why we would sign this petition
- Reinstating the 'one boat, one lake' policy would restore controlled, limited motorized access petitioners say balances recreation with environmental concerns.
- Petitioners say the reversal occurred without adequate public or in-person consultation; signing increases pressure for transparent engagement.
- A clear 'one boat, one lake' rule provides predictable, enforceable limits for lake users and local businesses.
Why we wouldn’t sign this petition
- Parks Canada says zebra mussels threaten Clear Lake and downstream waters; limiting motorboats reduces the risk of invasive spread.
- The government cites consultations with Indigenous communities and legal obligations, so reinstating the policy could conflict with conservation duties.
- Allowing motorized access now may undermine ongoing monitoring, prevention efforts, and the park’s broader management planning.
The summary and both sets of reasons are AI-generated from the petition and given equal weight. Claims are the petitioners’ own; consult the official record for the full text.
Official petition
Petition to the Government of Canada Parks Canada abruptly reversed its previously announced decision to allow motorized boat access on Clear Lake in Riding Mountain National Park hours before the May long weekend. Parks Canada announced motorized watercraft access would be restored on Clear Lake in January 2025 by implementing a “one boat, one lake” policy. As recently as May 12, 2025, emails obtained show that Parks Canada was still advising the public that motorized boats would be permitted on Clear Lake. This decision by Parks Canada to abruptly reverse the “one boat, one lake” policy was made without adequate public consultation. Parks Canada failed to host an in-person, public meeting to explain their decision, despite multiple requests by stakeholders, elected officials, and individuals. We, the undersigned, Citizens of Canada, call upon the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture to Reverse the Parks Canada’s decision to ban motorized watercraft on Clear Lake and reinstate the previously announced “one boat, one lake” policy, which allowed responsible and controlled access while addressing environmental concerns.
Government response
Response by the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages Signed by David Myles The government of Canada would like to thank the petitioners for expressing their concerns regarding motorized watercraft access on Clear Lake in Riding Mountain National Park. Parks Canada acknowledges the importance of Clear Lake to residents, visitors, and Indigenous communities. Parks Canada remains committed to its mandate to protect the natural environment while providing meaningful visitor experiences. The presence of zebra mussels poses a significant and long-term threat to the ecological health of Clear Lake and downstream watercourses. In May 2025, Parks Canada made the decision to limit motorboat use on Clear Lake to protect the lake’s ecosystem and downstream watercourses. This decision was informed by several factors, including ecological and socioeconomic considerations, visitation, stakeholder and public input, legal obligations under the Canada National Parks Act and other relevant legislation. Parks Canada's consultation with Keeseekoowenin Ojibway First Nation, which has reserve land on the western shores of Clear Lake, was one of several factors that contributed to the May 2025 decision. Work is underway to monitor zebra mussel spread, map their presence, and review science-based evidence. Parks Canada is also evaluating strategies to prevent their movement to other lakes and reduce the risk of new invasive species from entering the park. Public feedback has reflected a range of perspectives and the government is committed to working collaboratively with all interested parties to explore balanced, long-term solutions for the future of Clear Lake. Parks Canada is preparing a new management plan for Riding Mountain National Park. This planning process builds on previous engagement efforts and covers all aspects of the park, offering a key chance to set priorities that reflect community values, including ecosystems, cultural resources, visitor activities, infrastructure, relationships and communications. To date, Parks Canada has met with several First Nation leaders, stakeholders, community organizations and partners. These ongoing consultations and engagement initiatives will provide valuable input on priorities and inform Parks Canada’s decision-making in support of the sustainable use and long-term protection of the park. The government thanks all those who have contributed to this important dialogue and remains committed to making decisions that are transparent, evidence-based, and aligned with its mandate and core values.