Establish a bouldering management plan for the Glen
Target:
Niagara Park Commission
Sponsored by:
The Niagara Parks Commission has recently released a draft of their Land Management Plan on their website which has a recommendation to eliminate bouldering in the future to reduce environmental impact. http://www.niagaraparksnature.com/Welcome.html
Now is the time, as climbers, to speak up and let the Niagara Parks Commission know that banning bouldering is not the answer. For all those that have had the opportunity to climb at the Glen or wish to in the future, please email your comments or a letter to the following:
\n Marika Kozachenko This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , copy to \n Debra Whitehouse This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , also please copy us, \n the OAC This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Your comments supporting bouldering must be received before the October 19th, 2008 deadline. Follow the instructions below to use the sample letter. Feel free to include some of your own personal comments. It will only take a few minutes of your time to help preserve access to bouldering at the Glen.
Thanks,
Ontario Access Coalition
http://www.ontarioaccesscoalition.com
Now is the time, as climbers, to speak up and let the Niagara Parks Commission know that banning bouldering is not the answer. For all those that have had the opportunity to climb at the Glen or wish to in the future, please email your comments or a letter to the following:
\n Marika Kozachenko This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , copy to \n Debra Whitehouse This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , also please copy us, \n the OAC This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Your comments supporting bouldering must be received before the October 19th, 2008 deadline. Follow the instructions below to use the sample letter. Feel free to include some of your own personal comments. It will only take a few minutes of your time to help preserve access to bouldering at the Glen.
Thanks,
Ontario Access Coalition
http://www.ontarioaccesscoalition.com
The Niagara Parks Commission has recently released a draft of their Land Management Plan on their website which has a recommendation to eliminate bouldering in the future to reduce environmental impact. http://www.niagaraparksnature.com/Welcome.html
Now is the time, as climbers, to speak up and let the Niagara Parks Commission know that banning bouldering is not the answer. For all those that have had the opportunity to climb at the Glen or wish to in the future, please email your comments or a letter to the following:
\n Marika Kozachenko This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , copy to \n Debra Whitehouse This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , also please copy us, \n the OAC This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Your comments supporting bouldering must be received before the October 19th, 2008 deadline. Follow the instructions below to use the sample letter. Feel free to include some of your own personal comments. It will only take a few minutes of your time to help preserve access to bouldering at the Glen.
Thanks,
Ontario Access Coalition
http://www.ontarioaccesscoalition.com
Now is the time, as climbers, to speak up and let the Niagara Parks Commission know that banning bouldering is not the answer. For all those that have had the opportunity to climb at the Glen or wish to in the future, please email your comments or a letter to the following:
\n Marika Kozachenko This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , copy to \n Debra Whitehouse This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , also please copy us, \n the OAC This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .
Your comments supporting bouldering must be received before the October 19th, 2008 deadline. Follow the instructions below to use the sample letter. Feel free to include some of your own personal comments. It will only take a few minutes of your time to help preserve access to bouldering at the Glen.
Thanks,
Ontario Access Coalition
http://www.ontarioaccesscoalition.com
I write to state my opposition to the Niagara Park Commission's proposed
"Recommendation 11: Eliminate bouldering activities in the Niagara Glen"
outlined in the above draft plan. Like all boulderers, I cherish the
unique beauty of the Glen and urge the NPC to implement a creative
solution to decrease visitor impact while maintaining the access to the
Glen that boulderers have enjoyed for more than forty years.
The NPC should not unilaterally close the Niagara Glen before formally
adopting a bouldering management plan. Such action is unrealistic
because all visitors scramble to some degree on the hundreds of rocks in
the Glen and all visitors equally contribute to trail erosion.
Furthermore, boulderers are excellent stewards of the environment. At a
minimum, you should explore the less severe climbing management
prescriptions that have built positive relationships between climbers
and managers in other Ontario parks before you ban bouldering.
I am aware that the NPC is reviewing the management of nature trails at
the Niagara Glen to minimize the environmental impact of visitors.
Clearly marked trails and the removal of some unsanctioned trails would
greatly reduce erosion. Access to boulders that are not on existing
sanctioned trails should be clearly marked and restrictions to certain
areas could be explored before total closure of this area is considered.
Lastly, as a boulderer and outdoor enthusiast, I strive to be an
excellent steward of the environment. I maintain leave no trace when
visiting the Niagara Glen and pick up trash left by less conscientious
visitors. Understanding that improvements and maintenance to the park
are expensive, I would consider a user fee to boulder at the Niagara
Glen.
I am adamantly opposed to Recommendation 11's elimination of bouldering
in the Niagara Glen.
"Recommendation 11: Eliminate bouldering activities in the Niagara Glen"
outlined in the above draft plan. Like all boulderers, I cherish the
unique beauty of the Glen and urge the NPC to implement a creative
solution to decrease visitor impact while maintaining the access to the
Glen that boulderers have enjoyed for more than forty years.
The NPC should not unilaterally close the Niagara Glen before formally
adopting a bouldering management plan. Such action is unrealistic
because all visitors scramble to some degree on the hundreds of rocks in
the Glen and all visitors equally contribute to trail erosion.
Furthermore, boulderers are excellent stewards of the environment. At a
minimum, you should explore the less severe climbing management
prescriptions that have built positive relationships between climbers
and managers in other Ontario parks before you ban bouldering.
I am aware that the NPC is reviewing the management of nature trails at
the Niagara Glen to minimize the environmental impact of visitors.
Clearly marked trails and the removal of some unsanctioned trails would
greatly reduce erosion. Access to boulders that are not on existing
sanctioned trails should be clearly marked and restrictions to certain
areas could be explored before total closure of this area is considered.
Lastly, as a boulderer and outdoor enthusiast, I strive to be an
excellent steward of the environment. I maintain leave no trace when
visiting the Niagara Glen and pick up trash left by less conscientious
visitors. Understanding that improvements and maintenance to the park
are expensive, I would consider a user fee to boulder at the Niagara
Glen.
I am adamantly opposed to Recommendation 11's elimination of bouldering
in the Niagara Glen.
We signed the "Establish a bouldering management plan for the Glen" petition!
# 871:
2:50 pm PST, Dec 22,
Mathieu Elie, Canada
# 870:
9:16 am PST, Dec 12,
Andre Dahlman, Maryland
# 869:
9:11 am PST, Dec 12,
Josh Tuffin, Canada
# 868:
8:12 pm PST, Nov 27,
Ashley Stotts, Canada
As a traveller and Climber believe that a viable solution for all stakeholders can be reached. Parks and the Management of them need to look to the value that a greater diversity of users can do to enhance the park experience for Everyone.
As a traveller and Climber believe that a viable solution for all stakeholders can be reached. Parks and the Management of them need to look to the value that a greater diversity of users can do to enhance the park experience for Everyone.
# 867:
1:51 pm PST, Nov 21,
Chris Luciani, Canada
# 866:
7:47 pm PST, Nov 20,
Blair Allen, Canada
Banning such activities is backwards - we should be encouraging people to participate in activities that involve them in the outdoors and do it in a way that helps them learn about it.
Banning such activities is backwards - we should be encouraging people to participate in activities that involve them in the outdoors and do it in a way that helps them learn about it.
# 865:
12:53 pm PST, Nov 19,
Name not displayed, Canada
# 864:
9:41 am PST, Nov 17,
Kevin Doiron, Canada
Bouldering at the Glen is precious - perhaps a User agreement can be established to balance the concerns by the Park's Commission and still maintain access to the Boulders.
Bouldering at the Glen is precious - perhaps a User agreement can be established to balance the concerns by the Park's Commission and still maintain access to the Boulders.
# 863:
2:42 pm PST, Nov 14,
Dan Beadle, Canada
# 862:
7:36 pm PST, Nov 13,
Braden Stenning, Canada
# 861:
6:42 am PST, Nov 10,
Aaron Good, Pennsylvania
Preserving the beauty and the location of the Glen does not mean the elimination of a recreational sport. Bouldering itself is not the cause of an ecological melt down. I believe we have a great responsability to care for and respect the land, but restricting a certain recreational activity is not, in my opinion, going to fix anything. If anything by eliminating bouldering you remove a group of people who are usually advocates of keeping it green and leave no trace practices. Personally when I venture into the wilderness I try to leave it better than the way I found it. Yes, the climbing community could step up there cleanliness practices and those climbers who are just trendy climbers need to learn to be a little less selfish and do their part. However, the family hikers and other users, are usually people who have limited access to the wilderness and use the Glen without practicing leave no trace principles. Keep the Glen open and encourage all of the users to be better stewards of this beautiful God Given Creation.
Preserving the beauty and the location of the Glen does not mean the elimination of a recreational sport. Bouldering itself is not the cause of an ecological melt down. I believe we have a great responsability to care for and respect the land, but restricting a certain recreational activity is not, in my opinion, going to fix anything. If anything by eliminating bouldering you remove a group of people who are usually advocates of keeping it green and leave no trace practices. Personally when I venture into the wilderness I try to leave it better than the way I found it. Yes, the climbing community could step up there cleanliness practices and those climbers who are just trendy climbers need to learn to be a little less selfish and do their part. However, the family hikers and other users, are usually people who have limited access to the wilderness and use the Glen without practicing leave no trace principles. Keep the Glen open and encourage all of the users to be better stewards of this beautiful God Given Creation.
# 860:
10:49 am PST, Nov 8,
Steve Nystrom, Pennsylvania
As someone who cares as much about the biodiversity that the Glen has to offer as the incredible resource the park is as a recreational destination, I would like to see some sort of middle ground reached in an effort to be as stewardly of this resource as possible. I've been traveling to the Glen for 12 years to boulder and have noted the various changes in facilities and policies that have taken place over the years. I understand the necessity of change to accomodate increased traffic. Outright banning of bouldering in this area seems to be a drastic protective measure. How can we reach a middle ground to maximize our stewardship of this resource, allowing recreational (bouldering et al) usage while making provisions for the protection of the biological uniqueness the Glen offers?
As someone who cares as much about the biodiversity that the Glen has to offer as the incredible resource the park is as a recreational destination, I would like to see some sort of middle ground reached in an effort to be as stewardly of this resource as possible. I've been traveling to the Glen for 12 years to boulder and have noted the various changes in facilities and policies that have taken place over the years. I understand the necessity of change to accomodate increased traffic. Outright banning of bouldering in this area seems to be a drastic protective measure. How can we reach a middle ground to maximize our stewardship of this resource, allowing recreational (bouldering et al) usage while making provisions for the protection of the biological uniqueness the Glen offers?
# 859:
5:37 pm PST, Nov 6,
Dana Drummond, Alaska
Save the Glen! Great stop on the way between east and west coasts.
Save the Glen! Great stop on the way between east and west coasts.
# 858:
2:44 pm PST, Nov 6,
Alfred Dilluvio, New York
I love the glen. It is the most beautiful climbing area i have ever been to and it is one of the main reasons i decided to settle in Buffalo. Do not take away this piece of land and make it illegal to boulder there.
I love the glen. It is the most beautiful climbing area i have ever been to and it is one of the main reasons i decided to settle in Buffalo. Do not take away this piece of land and make it illegal to boulder there.
# 857:
11:52 am PST, Nov 5,
Thomas Prigg, Pennsylvania
Keeping bouldering open is more advantageous to the environment in the long run due to giving people a desire to preserve the "outdoors."
Keeping bouldering open is more advantageous to the environment in the long run due to giving people a desire to preserve the "outdoors."
# 856:
9:48 am PST, Nov 5,
Shane Greene, New Zealand
Don't do it! Most boulderers/climbers are not the problem. There are good boulderers and bad boulderers. Most are good because most love getting outdoors to do something away from urban sprawl!!! If you ban it those the good boulderers will no longer be there to help police and clean-up after the bad guys. And those bad guys probably won't give a #$%# about the ban and will climb anyway leaving you in the same position but with less help.
Don't do it! Most boulderers/climbers are not the problem. There are good boulderers and bad boulderers. Most are good because most love getting outdoors to do something away from urban sprawl!!! If you ban it those the good boulderers will no longer be there to help police and clean-up after the bad guys. And those bad guys probably won't give a #$%# about the ban and will climb anyway leaving you in the same position but with less help.
# 855:
6:44 pm PST, Nov 4,
Ryan Couldwell, Canada
Im moving to Ontario. Please don't take the Glen away from me.
Im moving to Ontario. Please don't take the Glen away from me.
# 854:
11:18 am PST, Nov 4,
Mikhail Ksenzov, Canada
For more impact, add a personal comment here
For more impact, add a personal comment here
# 853:
7:37 pm PST, Nov 3,
Brent Elliott, Canada
I've been bouldering in the Glen for 4 or 5 years. I like to consider myself a steward of the area. I make a point to pick up garbage every time I go and leave as little trace as possible as do most climbers. I agree that the area should be kept as pristine as possible but disagree that banning climbing is the only way to do this. Of the users of the area I claim that climbers are some of the most conscientious and considerate as we live for the outdoors. It is not only in our interests to keep the Glen pristine but also our duty as outdoor enthusiasts.
I've been bouldering in the Glen for 4 or 5 years. I like to consider myself a steward of the area. I make a point to pick up garbage every time I go and leave as little trace as possible as do most climbers. I agree that the area should be kept as pristine as possible but disagree that banning climbing is the only way to do this. Of the users of the area I claim that climbers are some of the most conscientious and considerate as we live for the outdoors. It is not only in our interests to keep the Glen pristine but also our duty as outdoor enthusiasts.
# 852:
11:44 am PST, Nov 3,
Chris Singer, Canada
Please recognize that climbing and bouldering is a unique feature and scarce resource as not all rock can be climbed or is enjoyable to climb. So to take away access to more of this already scarce resource would be a poor use of the land. I recognize that there is environmental impact as there is with any land use; however, if it manage together we can minimize the impact. Lets work together on this.
Please recognize that climbing and bouldering is a unique feature and scarce resource as not all rock can be climbed or is enjoyable to climb. So to take away access to more of this already scarce resource would be a poor use of the land. I recognize that there is environmental impact as there is with any land use; however, if it manage together we can minimize the impact. Lets work together on this.
# 851:
9:27 am PST, Nov 3,
Justin Dix, New York
# 850:
9:49 pm PST, Nov 2,
Cameron McDonald, Canada
If you want to rehabilitate the glen you should take down the metal stairs so that the thousands of overseas tourists can't trample it into more of a dustbowl than it already has become. Also, take down that ridiculous totem pole theme park and get rid of the pavilion and the bbqs. That would cut down on your traffic. The parks commission is advertising the place like a theme park and trying to ban the most respectful group of people that use the place. Someone should tell the kid in the picture on this webpage to stop touching the rock, he's killing the lichen http://www.niagaraparks.com/nature/niagaraglen.php
If you want to rehabilitate the glen you should take down the metal stairs so that the thousands of overseas tourists can't trample it into more of a dustbowl than it already has become. Also, take down that ridiculous totem pole theme park and get rid of the pavilion and the bbqs. That would cut down on your traffic. The parks commission is advertising the place like a theme park and trying to ban the most respectful group of people that use the place. Someone should tell the kid in the picture on this webpage to stop touching the rock, he's killing the lichen http://www.niagaraparks.com/nature/niagaraglen.php
# 849:
7:26 pm PST, Nov 2,
Name not displayed, Canada
# 848:
7:25 pm PST, Nov 2,
Richard La Mura, New York
# 847:
2:05 pm PST, Nov 2,
Brent Rowe, Canada
# 846:
8:47 am PST, Nov 2,
Name not displayed, United Kingdom
# 845:
5:38 pm PDT, Nov 1,
Peter D'Auria, New York
I have been a hiker and boulderer in the Niagara Glen for 12 years and in the past 4 years so have my daughters. We are sensitive to the impact our footsteps incur and more often pack out more trash than we came in with. Please don't follow in the footsteps of our (USA) governments' backward policies regarding restricting hikers and climbers at the same time they allow commercialization of public lands. I know many like the golf course and floral clock in this park but some of us humans want to be more animal in our experience of the Niagara Gorge-it's only natural.
I have been a hiker and boulderer in the Niagara Glen for 12 years and in the past 4 years so have my daughters. We are sensitive to the impact our footsteps incur and more often pack out more trash than we came in with. Please don't follow in the footsteps of our (USA) governments' backward policies regarding restricting hikers and climbers at the same time they allow commercialization of public lands. I know many like the golf course and floral clock in this park but some of us humans want to be more animal in our experience of the Niagara Gorge-it's only natural.
# 844:
10:27 am PDT, Nov 1,
Samantha Cross, Canada
I haven't yet had the pleasure of bouldering at the Glen! =( My girlfriend and I have just gotten into rock climbing and are extremely excited about plans to boulder at the Glen this spring/summer... PLEASE don't make that impossible!!! We never litter or anything. We're extremely green. Promise!
I haven't yet had the pleasure of bouldering at the Glen! =( My girlfriend and I have just gotten into rock climbing and are extremely excited about plans to boulder at the Glen this spring/summer... PLEASE don't make that impossible!!! We never litter or anything. We're extremely green. Promise!
# 843:
10:14 am PDT, Nov 1,
Brad Thomas, Canada
Bouldering has minimal impact on the environment. The impact to peoples lives though is priceless. Please leave us play in the outdoors.
Bouldering has minimal impact on the environment. The impact to peoples lives though is priceless. Please leave us play in the outdoors.
# 842:
7:32 am PDT, Nov 1,
Garry Reiss, Canada
Being environmentally aware is critical for ALL users of Niagara Glen. I believe that boulderers and other forms of nature can co-exist in the park. In lieu of an outright ban other options could be, educating visitors, requiring permits, and perhaps restricting access in the most sensitive areas.
Being environmentally aware is critical for ALL users of Niagara Glen. I believe that boulderers and other forms of nature can co-exist in the park. In lieu of an outright ban other options could be, educating visitors, requiring permits, and perhaps restricting access in the most sensitive areas.
# 841:
9:22 am PDT, Oct 31,
Scott Cody, New York
# 840:
12:43 pm PDT, Oct 30,
Mike Donahue, New York
# 839:
9:38 pm PDT, Oct 28,
Maia Trotter, Canada
# 838:
7:15 pm PDT, Oct 28,
Name not displayed, Canada
I've been a climber/boulderer for almost 10 years and bouldering at the Niagara Glen since 2002. In all of my years of experience, what I see is not the climbers leaving their mark on the Glen, but the hikers and other tourists. Myself, and other climbers alike, will always pick up stray garbage that we see on the paths as we pass by (be it candy wrappers or cigarette butts). I have witnessed hikers littering and breaking off branches from trees and plants all the time, but it is not them that are targeted. Climbers also organize regular clean-up days, gathering volunteers to visit the Glen to specifically walk through and pick up any waste in sight, to help keep our Glen looking clean. Please, rather than banning bouldering from the Glen, include it in your management plan so that we may all continue to enjoy the Niagara Glen's beautiful habitat. Thank you.
I've been a climber/boulderer for almost 10 years and bouldering at the Niagara Glen since 2002. In all of my years of experience, what I see is not the climbers leaving their mark on the Glen, but the hikers and other tourists. Myself, and other climbers alike, will always pick up stray garbage that we see on the paths as we pass by (be it candy wrappers or cigarette butts). I have witnessed hikers littering and breaking off branches from trees and plants all the time, but it is not them that are targeted. Climbers also organize regular clean-up days, gathering volunteers to visit the Glen to specifically walk through and pick up any waste in sight, to help keep our Glen looking clean. Please, rather than banning bouldering from the Glen, include it in your management plan so that we may all continue to enjoy the Niagara Glen's beautiful habitat. Thank you.
# 837:
5:03 pm PDT, Oct 28,
Scott Messick, Pennsylvania
I enjoy making trips to the Glen.
I enjoy making trips to the Glen.
# 836:
3:34 pm PDT, Oct 28,
Cameron Larsen, Canada
I just recently started climbing and am just back from a Niagra Glen trip and I can't stand the thought of losing that place. Let us keep climbing!
I just recently started climbing and am just back from a Niagra Glen trip and I can't stand the thought of losing that place. Let us keep climbing!
# 835:
12:45 pm PDT, Oct 28,
David Brzykcy, New York
The Glen has a rich climbing history. It is the first place I ever climbed, back in the days when we could climb roped, and we would not be bothered. As roped climbing became a problem due to more crowded trails, we climbers gladly gave up the ropes for the bouldering. Climbers have long cleaned out old cans, bottles and garbage carelessly left by others, and have been generally good stewards of the resource.
The Glen has a rich climbing history. It is the first place I ever climbed, back in the days when we could climb roped, and we would not be bothered. As roped climbing became a problem due to more crowded trails, we climbers gladly gave up the ropes for the bouldering. Climbers have long cleaned out old cans, bottles and garbage carelessly left by others, and have been generally good stewards of the resource.
# 834:
12:17 pm PDT, Oct 28,
Lydia McDonald, South Carolina
# 833:
11:39 am PDT, Oct 28,
Dan Herr, New York
The climbing community has a better impact on the area then many would assume. They clean up trash left by unkowning or uneducated visitors. They acts tour guides and education awareness advocates or the area in answering questions about the area and climbing and in assisting visitors with directions. And just as important they bring tourism dollars to the area. It would be disappointing to condemn a group that helps the community.
The climbing community has a better impact on the area then many would assume. They clean up trash left by unkowning or uneducated visitors. They acts tour guides and education awareness advocates or the area in answering questions about the area and climbing and in assisting visitors with directions. And just as important they bring tourism dollars to the area. It would be disappointing to condemn a group that helps the community.
# 832:
1:46 pm PDT, Oct 27,
Jon Lawrence-Tayler, Canada
From experiences in the UK, I can assure you that driving climbers underground and issuing a ban on bouldering is not going to solve a problem here. At the moment you have a community of like-minded, environmentally conscious (for the most part) responsible individuals. By issuing a summary blanket ban all you do is ensure that people will break the law and still boulder anyway - unless you're suggesting that for the sake of the environment we should tear out all the boulders and build a 20 foot high electric fence around the green spaces. At the moment we're all on the same side - by adopting an adversarial position here, you'll be dividing a community which by and large has a heightened sense of stewardship regarding the environment. The BMC's access committee in the United Kingdom has dealt with these issues over and over again - and banning bouldering won't stop people from bouldering - they'll do it anyway and then you'll have to find a way to police the area stretching valuable resources and time. I cannot stress enough my support for a structured and environmentally sensitive bouldering management plan for the Glen. regards Jon Lawrence-Tayler
From experiences in the UK, I can assure you that driving climbers underground and issuing a ban on bouldering is not going to solve a problem here. At the moment you have a community of like-minded, environmentally conscious (for the most part) responsible individuals. By issuing a summary blanket ban all you do is ensure that people will break the law and still boulder anyway - unless you're suggesting that for the sake of the environment we should tear out all the boulders and build a 20 foot high electric fence around the green spaces. At the moment we're all on the same side - by adopting an adversarial position here, you'll be dividing a community which by and large has a heightened sense of stewardship regarding the environment. The BMC's access committee in the United Kingdom has dealt with these issues over and over again - and banning bouldering won't stop people from bouldering - they'll do it anyway and then you'll have to find a way to police the area stretching valuable resources and time. I cannot stress enough my support for a structured and environmentally sensitive bouldering management plan for the Glen. regards Jon Lawrence-Tayler
# 831:
9:48 am PDT, Oct 27,
Lesley Bautista, Massachusetts
# 830:
6:39 pm PDT, Oct 26,
Yudai Nakagawa, Canada
I've never visited the glen, but I would really like to climb there one day. As much as it is important for us to protect the fragile eco-system of the glen, I feel that we should come up with a solution where climbers can still interact with the environment without destroying it.
I've never visited the glen, but I would really like to climb there one day. As much as it is important for us to protect the fragile eco-system of the glen, I feel that we should come up with a solution where climbers can still interact with the environment without destroying it.
# 829:
12:32 pm PDT, Oct 26,
Nathan Kutcher, Canada
The Niagara Glen is a irreplaceable resource to climbers in S.Ontario and W.New York. Climbers and sensitive areas can coexist. The rock faces climbers tend to favor most are generally clean and naturally devoid of plant life. The tops of vegetated boulders are generally, and can normally be avoided by true rock climbers. Please don't confuse the ways of real climbers and peak bagging hikers. Educating climbers rather than banning them will do far more to save the resources in the park. Climbers don't want to see the Glen get trashed. Educated climbers can be part of the solution to the destruction caused by the various user groups, including the few careless climbers.
The Niagara Glen is a irreplaceable resource to climbers in S.Ontario and W.New York. Climbers and sensitive areas can coexist. The rock faces climbers tend to favor most are generally clean and naturally devoid of plant life. The tops of vegetated boulders are generally, and can normally be avoided by true rock climbers. Please don't confuse the ways of real climbers and peak bagging hikers. Educating climbers rather than banning them will do far more to save the resources in the park. Climbers don't want to see the Glen get trashed. Educated climbers can be part of the solution to the destruction caused by the various user groups, including the few careless climbers.
# 828:
11:53 am PDT, Oct 26,
Jennifer Dawson, Canada
# 827:
6:27 am PDT, Oct 26,
Elizabeth Lawrence, Massachusetts
# 826:
2:56 am PDT, Oct 26,
Silky Wylder, Wisconsin
# 825:
7:07 pm PDT, Oct 25,
Ghislain De Laplante, Canada
# 824:
5:32 pm PDT, Oct 25,
Name not displayed, Canada
The block is an art related to nature. The majority of boulders wishing to keep their playgrounds are just as anxious as ''The Niagara Parks Commission'' to keep this place healthy. I do not think removing lawful access to athletes environmentally friendly is the best solution. Maybe we could find a balance, as the rotation access sector ...
The block is an art related to nature. The majority of boulders wishing to keep their playgrounds are just as anxious as ''The Niagara Parks Commission'' to keep this place healthy. I do not think removing lawful access to athletes environmentally friendly is the best solution. Maybe we could find a balance, as the rotation access sector ...
# 823:
2:42 pm PDT, Oct 25,
Louie Anderson, California
# 822:
1:06 pm PDT, Oct 25,
Mark Siwoski, Canada
# 821:
8:14 am PDT, Oct 25,
Adrian Bissenden, Canada
# 820:
11:14 pm PDT, Oct 24,
Craig Alfredson, Canada
# 819:
10:50 pm PDT, Oct 24,
David Burnette, New York
I will be a little blunt to keep this short. To begin a little about myself, I am active in any and all communities I reside, I am a mentor, volunteer firefighter, youth advocate, wilderness, and nature advocate. I love the outdoors and all it has to offer. I have been climbing for about 4 years now, and have made great friends and memories in the process, I know that everyone of my friends who climb in the glen are disgusted with the trash, we have even tried to orchestrate a group clean up with area climbing gyms, but someone was told that they did not want us doing this and that it would be taking away the jobs of park service workers in Canada. I assure you that the climbers I know are not responsible for the trash. I not only climb but spend countless hours doing numerous activities in the wild and always pack out what I pack in. Please consider keeping the glen open for climbing, and realize that closing the glen would be taking away from people who for the most part love the Earth, and all that is in it. Please undestand I truly do not believe climbers are at all responsible for the trash, and please further understand that this is a popular tourist attraction that is open to all, and some who do not think that packing out their trash is a necessity like I do.
I will be a little blunt to keep this short. To begin a little about myself, I am active in any and all communities I reside, I am a mentor, volunteer firefighter, youth advocate, wilderness, and nature advocate. I love the outdoors and all it has to offer. I have been climbing for about 4 years now, and have made great friends and memories in the process, I know that everyone of my friends who climb in the glen are disgusted with the trash, we have even tried to orchestrate a group clean up with area climbing gyms, but someone was told that they did not want us doing this and that it would be taking away the jobs of park service workers in Canada. I assure you that the climbers I know are not responsible for the trash. I not only climb but spend countless hours doing numerous activities in the wild and always pack out what I pack in. Please consider keeping the glen open for climbing, and realize that closing the glen would be taking away from people who for the most part love the Earth, and all that is in it. Please undestand I truly do not believe climbers are at all responsible for the trash, and please further understand that this is a popular tourist attraction that is open to all, and some who do not think that packing out their trash is a necessity like I do.
# 818:
5:17 pm PDT, Oct 24,
Chris Mills, Canada
My family and I have been hiking in the Niagara Glen since we arrived in the Niagara region more than 10 years ago. We agree wholeheartedly that the people who cavalierly despoil the Glen should be banned, but that doesn't include Boulderers. People like them are among the true guardians of our parks, who clean up after the rowdies have left a mess. If I were capable of climbing the rocks there, I would, and I'd hate to see their athleticism and conservation ideals denied. They're not the destroyers. Leave them alone.
My family and I have been hiking in the Niagara Glen since we arrived in the Niagara region more than 10 years ago. We agree wholeheartedly that the people who cavalierly despoil the Glen should be banned, but that doesn't include Boulderers. People like them are among the true guardians of our parks, who clean up after the rowdies have left a mess. If I were capable of climbing the rocks there, I would, and I'd hate to see their athleticism and conservation ideals denied. They're not the destroyers. Leave them alone.
# 817:
4:07 pm PDT, Oct 24,
Joseph Balkenbush, Nevada
# 816:
3:38 pm PDT, Oct 24,
David Grant, Canada
# 815:
1:32 pm PDT, Oct 24,
Michael Warnock, Canada
# 814:
1:31 pm PDT, Oct 24,
Andrew Benham, United Kingdom
# 813:
1:23 pm PDT, Oct 24,
Trevor Fields, Nevada
Access issues hit close to home. I hope your organization can learn that it's not the climbers who pollute your beautiful park, and that by working with the climbers, some sort of a middle ground can be reached and your park could be left with better trails, and an educated population of people who visit the park, both climbers and non-climbers.
Access issues hit close to home. I hope your organization can learn that it's not the climbers who pollute your beautiful park, and that by working with the climbers, some sort of a middle ground can be reached and your park could be left with better trails, and an educated population of people who visit the park, both climbers and non-climbers.
# 812:
1:02 pm PDT, Oct 24,
Ghislain Allard, Canada
# 811:
12:55 pm PDT, Oct 24,
Benjamin Johnson, Canada
# 810:
12:48 pm PDT, Oct 24,
Deanna Whittington, Canada
# 809:
12:20 pm PDT, Oct 24,
Ryan Bressler, Washington
Please work to establish a plan that allows boulderers and nature to coexist in the glen.
Please work to establish a plan that allows boulderers and nature to coexist in the glen.
# 808:
11:49 am PDT, Oct 24,
Kevin Coghill, Canada
Activities in areas that are deemed threatened or sensitive should be regulated. However an outright ban of a single activity without the proper analysis is tantamount to discrimination. In the Niagara Glen, as others areas, it is just as plausible (if not more likely) that day walkers and casual users cause many of the problems that re attributed to climbers, who are a more visible user group. Boulderers and climbers in general because of their vested intrest in the areas they use act as stewards for the environment they recreate in. Please consider that bouldering can be a sustainable activity, to the degree that day hiking can be.
Activities in areas that are deemed threatened or sensitive should be regulated. However an outright ban of a single activity without the proper analysis is tantamount to discrimination. In the Niagara Glen, as others areas, it is just as plausible (if not more likely) that day walkers and casual users cause many of the problems that re attributed to climbers, who are a more visible user group. Boulderers and climbers in general because of their vested intrest in the areas they use act as stewards for the environment they recreate in. Please consider that bouldering can be a sustainable activity, to the degree that day hiking can be.
# 807:
11:01 am PDT, Oct 24,
Name not displayed, Canada
Please please please work with the Access Society and keep the dialogue open for continued climber access to the Glen. Most climbers are extremely responsible individuals who care deeply about the environment.
Please please please work with the Access Society and keep the dialogue open for continued climber access to the Glen. Most climbers are extremely responsible individuals who care deeply about the environment.
# 806:
10:23 am PDT, Oct 24,
Michael Chan, Canada
Most climbers, including myself, are environmentally aware and caring. The destruction of indigenous species of mosses, lichen and animals is not something any climber wants. I am not opposed to managing access to protect the environment, but I do not believe a total ban is necessary. Education and awareness are always the best solutions.
Most climbers, including myself, are environmentally aware and caring. The destruction of indigenous species of mosses, lichen and animals is not something any climber wants. I am not opposed to managing access to protect the environment, but I do not believe a total ban is necessary. Education and awareness are always the best solutions.
# 805:
9:33 am PDT, Oct 24,
Jason Lee, Canada
# 804:
9:20 am PDT, Oct 24,
Andrew Sifain, New York
as an avid climber with little time, ive noted tourists have more a negative impact on the environement than us climbers.
as an avid climber with little time, ive noted tourists have more a negative impact on the environement than us climbers.
# 803:
9:00 am PDT, Oct 24,
Mike Palethorpe, Canada
To Whom It May Concern, I fully encourage the Commission NOT to ban bouldering at Niagara Glen, but to work together with the OAC and Climbers, to adopt a land use management plan that encourages use and stewardship. It is difficult because it is a small area under heavy use, especially from tourists and non-climbing groups. But banning bouldering outright is not the solution. I think our public areas should encourage use and access, especially in today's sedentary lifestyle. Best Regards, Mike Palethorpe
To Whom It May Concern, I fully encourage the Commission NOT to ban bouldering at Niagara Glen, but to work together with the OAC and Climbers, to adopt a land use management plan that encourages use and stewardship. It is difficult because it is a small area under heavy use, especially from tourists and non-climbing groups. But banning bouldering outright is not the solution. I think our public areas should encourage use and access, especially in today's sedentary lifestyle. Best Regards, Mike Palethorpe
# 802:
8:42 am PDT, Oct 24,
Chris Lepik, Canada
# 801:
8:24 am PDT, Oct 24,
Cheryl Hall, Illinois
Please preserve climbing access at Niagara Glen.
Please preserve climbing access at Niagara Glen.
