y to the shores of Lake Superior. Designation of this area includes over 1.1 million hectares of coast land and inland areas (MNR, 2001). The inland areas range anywhere from two to five kilometres from the shoreline depending upon the area (MNR, 2001). Not only is the GLHC important for natural reasons, it also has historical significance being home to several native tribes and also was a popular trading route. Policy for the GLHC is found in Ontario’s Living Legacy Land Use. This policy statement provides a management framework for protection and enjoyment of the coast (MNR, 2001). This policy includes watersheds, lakes, and Crown land that exist in the designated area (MNR, 2001). Although the policy does not include native land or privately owned land, they are encouraged to participate with the GLHC (MNR, 2001). Public involvement is encouraged in order to promote discussion regarding future possibilities along the coast. As a result of this discussion a report will be developed and be presented to Natural Resource Minister John Snobolen and the public. To assist in the GLHC initiative a support office in Thunder Bay has been established. This support branch is responsible for: facilitating government consultation, coordinating public participation and activities, receiving and responding to public input, assessing information and coordinating background research, providing overall support in preparation of the development and implementation of the GLHC strategy (MNR, 2001). In order to aid the development required for the GLHC the provincial government has provided $2.4 million in order to assist in the project (MNR, 2001). The funding will help develop park and Crown land and will reflect the project’s four main themes: interpretation/ education, recreation trails, water-based development, and gateway signage (MNR, 2001). Guest SpeakerCurrently, several community discussions have been held and a new p...
