Blog Reflections Blog #2

Question #1: Can parks meet its dual mandate of access and protection?

     I do not believe that the dual mandate is a possibility.  I feel as though by allowing access to parks, where wildlife and natural landscapes exist, degradation will occur.  Although some people are respectful of parks and the wildlife that is present, there is a large portion of people who abuse these natural places.  To me the protection of parks is far more important than the access.  Unfortunately, I am not sure that this is an option since there is such high demand from people to experience natural places and see wildlife in its natural environment. 

Question #2: How can this be achieved in Wapusk?

     If protection of the natural environment in Wapusk is to continue then access should not be allowed.  Currently, limited access is granted on certain conditions, but to some extent this still poses a strain on the natural environment.  In order to preserve Wapusk, limited access must be sustained.  An even better solution would be no access to any point of the park.

Question #3: What future would you like to see for the Alberta Tar Sands?

     My opinion for the future of the tar sands is to stop development entirely.  The Tar Sands are a toxic project that degrade the natural environment, and waste valuable resources such as water.  I see no point in putting more resources into a project that does not offer an equal or better return.  To me the negative factors far exceed the positive ones.  I feel as though the money could be spent on the development of sustainable energy sources that we will have to depend on in our near future.  Another factor that fuels my opinion is the increased health risks of the people who reside near the tar sands and the tailings ponds.  It is not a healthy environment to be living near or working in.  I believe that the Canadian government needs to take responsibility and set an example by stopping production of the tar sands.  If a change like this can occur I believe it will attract better opportunities for Canada than the fight over our dirty oil. 

Other Comments

     On a lighter note, I really enjoyed watching the film Fresh in class this week.  I think that it gives a really honest look into the farming industry and emphasizes the negative impacts of conventional farming.  I myself already eat organic and local foods, but found it interesting to think of other peoples reactions in the class.  While watching this film I found a feeling of anger inside me due to the treatment of the animals and the ignorance of people in the industry.  I feel as though this film, and the book I read for the position paper, The Value of Nothing, complimented each other well and followed many of the same concepts.  Overall, I hope that this film can continue to make an impact on others as it has on me.