Tories' expansion of Nahanni park praised

[Michael Bluth]

Here's the story. Link

As much as those with an axe to grind denigrate the Conservatives for everything they do this is very positive news.

Those who truly care about the Canadian wilderness are very happy with this move.

"What this demonstrates to us is that the Prime Minister clearly recognizes the important of protecting wilderness and wildlife in North and across Canada for that matter," said Jill Sturdy of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society on Wednesday.

[jdobbin]

As much as those with an axe to grind denigrate the Conservatives for everything they do this is very positive news.

Those who truly care about the Canadian wilderness are very happy with this move.

I think it is an excellent decision. It will take dozens of similar decisions like this one for Harper to achieve the distinction that Mulroney earned in his time in office. In short, he has to show that he believes in the environment including global warming even when his allies in Australia and the U.S. don't.

I won't take anything away from the important decision but spinning it to say that Harper could pass Mulroney ignores the fact environmentalists and Canadians are still pushing him on the global warming issue and are not yet satisfied.

[geoffrey]

Harper has a long way to go to catch the greenest PM ever, but this is actually a solid decision. Bravo. It's also out in the middle of godforsaken nowhere, so it didn't really come at a political price... not like say expanding Banff National Park or Yoho. But oh well. In of itself, it's a good move.

[fellowtraveller]

Nahanni is a beautiful and special place.

I was once offered a job at Nahanni Butte, which was declined.

[Michael Bluth]

Harper definitely has a ways to go to match Mulroney's record on the environment, but if he keeps up his commitment he'll get there. Far too often environmental groups get caught up in the all-encompassing disdain for anything a Tory would do. But this is a very solid move and should be commended.

[Bonam]

Agreed, good step. I think Canada needs way way more protected land (national parks and such) though.