Parks Canada Agency

**About national parks** There are 37 national parks and 11 national park reserves in Canada that represent 31 of Canada's 39 terrestrial natural regions and protect approximately 343,377 square kilometers of lands in Canada. These wild places, located in every province and territory, range from mountains and plains, to boreal forests and tundra, to lakes and glaciers, and much more. Parks Canada is responsible for protecting these areas, and for managing them for visitors to understand, appreciate, and enjoy in a way that doesn't compromise their ecological integrity. **About national historic sites** There are 1004 national historic sites in Canada, located in every Canadian province and territory. 171 of these are administered by Parks Canada. National historic sites can be found in almost any setting, from rural and urban to wilderness; they may be sacred spaces, archaeological sites, battlefields, heritage houses, historic districts, places of scientific discovery, and much more. These sites allow us to learn more about Canadian history, including the diverse cultural communities who make up Canada, and the history and culture of Indigenous peoples. **Mandate** On behalf of the people of Canada, we protect and present nationally significant examples of Canada's natural and cultural heritage, and foster public understanding, appreciation and enjoyment in ways that ensure the ecological and commemorative integrity of these places for present and future generations. **Our role** - **We are guardians** ...of the national parks, the national historic sites and the national marine conservation areas of Canada. - **We are guides** ...to visitors from around the world, opening doors to places of discovery and learning, reflection and recreation. - **We are partners** ...building on the rich traditions of our Aboriginal people, the strength of our diverse cultures and our commitments to the international community. - **We are storytellers** ...recounting the history of our land and our people - the stories of Canada. **Our commitments** - **To protect**, ...as a first priority, the natural and cultural heritage of our special places and ensure that they remain healthy and whole. - **To present** ...the beauty and significance of our natural world and to chronicle the human determination and ingenuity which have shaped our nation. - **To celebrate** ...the legacy of visionary Canadians whose passion and knowledge have inspired the character and values of our country. - **To serve** ...Canadians, working together to achieve excellence guided by values of competence, respect and fairness.