The Bonshaw Hills Public Lands Subcommittee is seeking public input on a management plan for properties to be included in an expanded park in the Bonshaw Hills, says Subcommittee co-chair Jackie Waddell.

“The land in the Bonshaw Hills is unlike anywhere else on Prince Edward Island, featuring a mix of forest and field, bounded by the West River,” said co-chair Jackie Waddell. “It is a rich mix of forest ecosystems in various stages of succession, some with relatively untouched understory vegetation and terrain and others in need of restoration and management.

The Bonshaw Hills Public Lands Committee was tasked to make recommendations to government on the management and best future use of this land. The Committee’s final report was received in 2013, and contained 20 recommendations for managing public land in the New Haven-Bonshaw area. The recommendations followed three core principles: conservation of sensitive lands, recreation through active living, and nature education for all ages.

A subcommittee was appointed to implement the recommendations of the report and is currently seeking feedback on the Management Plan for Bonshaw Hills Expanded Park Properties. Comments from the public will be accepted from Monday, March 23 until Monday, April 13, 2015.

“In keeping with the park concept, this plan outlines management goals that work toward a balanced set of values for ecological and heritage conservation, outdoor recreation and education,” said co-chair Jackie Waddell. “We are looking forward to hearing the feedback from Islanders on the management plan for this natural spaces parkland concept.”

The Management Plan for Bonshaw Hills Expanded Park Properties, along with details for providing feedback, is now available online at www.gov.pe.ca/tir/bonshawhills.