The focus is not simply on southern Georgian Bay
To the Expositor:
Thank you for your recent coverage of the Georgian Bay Aspiring Geopark (‘Manitoulin Municipal Association wants more details on Island’s participation in Georgian Bay Geopark,’ May 28, Page 1). We welcome informed public dialogue and deeply value Manitoulin Island’s extraordinary geological and cultural significance within the broader Georgian Bay region.
However, some important clarifications are needed in response to several points raised in the article.
1. Geographic Focus: Contrary to suggestions that the Geopark is primarily a southern Georgian Bay initiative, the vision from the outset has been pan-regional. Our approach includes all of Georgian Bay and the North Channel, with Manitoulin Island recognized as a distinct and essential component of this story—geologically, culturally and historically.
2. Consultation and Engagement: The Geopark is currently in its preparatory phase, led by a largely volunteer group that has spent the past three years building a foundation for inclusive regional engagement. This includes: Developing a science-based framework with Professor Nick Eyles and other researchers, introducing the concept of eight geological time zones that honour the distinct narratives of each region, including Manitoulin; Hosting consultation and tourism planning and Geopark introductory meetings in Killarney, Parry Sound, Tobermory, and most recently Sudbury, Little Current, Blind River and Bruce Mines with further meetings planned; and engaging with representatives – among others – from Sagamok First Nation, Serpent River, ELNOS in Elliott Lake and Northern Ontario tourism stakeholders including Destination Northern Ontario.
3. Digital Platform as a Tool for Consultation: We have deliberately prioritized the development of a digital platform (website and app) currently in development to support region-wide consultation, storytelling and co-creation. This tool is being designed to allow communities like Manitoulin to: Share stories, guides and tourism offerings; contribute to and manage local geosites; and promote sustainable tourism and education tailored to local priorities.
We fully understand and support the importance of community leadership and consent. No region, including Manitoulin, will be included without open dialogue, support and collaboration.
We look forward to the opportunity to present the full scope of this initiative to MMA (Manitoulin Municipal Association), NEMI (Town of Northeastern Manitoulin and the Islands), Indigenous communities and other local communities, and to working together in shaping a Geopark that reflects and strengthens the unique identities of Manitoulin and each region of Georgian Bay and the North Channel.
Best regards,
Tony Pigott
Executive Director
Georgian Bay Aspiring Geopark
