Government of Yukon supports park planning by establishing new protections for the McIntyre Creek area

Map of the boundary of the prohibition of entry order and administrative reserve

The Government of Yukon is protecting the McIntyre Creek area from additional mineral staking and land development.

Today, the Yukon government amended a prohibition of entry order under the Quartz Mining Act to expand the boundary of an existing staking ban. As a result, no new quartz mineral claims in the McIntyre Creek area will be permitted. In addition, a new administrative land reserve was established to protect the area from new land disposition while providing flexibility for responsible land-use decision making.

The Government of Yukon is taking these steps to protect the McIntyre Creek area from development and mining that could impact future park planning. These new protections support the City of Whitehorse’s commitment to collaborating with the Government of Yukon to begin comprehensive management planning for Chasàn Chuà / McIntyre Creek park alongside the Kwanlin Dün First Nation, Ta’an Kwäch’än Council and Yukon University.

Since day one, our government has been committed to working with partners to protect the McIntyre Creek area. These new protections will ensure that the whole proposed park area is protected from mineral staking and development while providing flexibility for responsible land-use planning. I look forward to continuing to work with the City of Whitehorse, Yukon University, Kwanlin Dün First Nation, Ta’an Kwäch’än Council and the Friends of McIntyre Creek to establish Chasàn Chuà / McIntyre Creek park and to further strengthening the vital role of this area.

Premier Ranj Pillai 

Our government recognizes the importance of shared outdoor spaces for conservation, recreation, learning and mental and physical wellbeing. That is why we have worked hard with partners to ensure the protection of the McIntyre Creek area as park planning continues. I look forward to seeing Chasàn Chuà / McIntyre Creek park come to fruition for the enjoyment of Yukoners for generations to come.

Minister of Environment Nils Clarke

The existing staking ban and municipal zoning provide a level of assurance against development. The measures we are taking now will provide additional layers of protection for the area being considered for Chasàn Chuà / McIntyre Creek park. Parks are not just spaces for recreation and relaxation, they are essential for the health and wellbeing of our communities and the natural environment. Our government is committed to prioritizing the protection of these valuable park spaces to ensure that future generations can enjoy the benefits of nature and the preservation of land.

Minister of Energy, Mines and Resources John Streicker

 The City of Whitehorse is focused on ensuring everyone in our community has access to rich and diverse greenspace. The protection of Chasàn Chùa/McIntyre Creek Park will ensure residents can experience these natural spaces for generations to come. We look forward to working with the Government of Yukon, Kwanlin Dün First Nation and Ta’an Kwäch’än Council on comprehensive management plans that bring that vision to life for every member of our community.

Mayor of Whitehorse Laura Cabott

The Friends of McIntyre Creek are very excited to announce that McIntyre Creek will have the status of a park.  To me this means that this important wildlife corridor will remain a safe place for wildlife movement.  We have worked for 14 years to educate every one that wildlife movement is important and happens in this city.  McIntyre Creek is the only safe passage remaining through the city.  Thank you, Kwanlin Dün First Nation, Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, City of Whitehorse, and Yukon Government for making this happen.

Dorothy Bradley, Friends of McIntyre Creek Society

Quick facts 
  • An administrative reserve is a common public land management tool that puts a pause on approval for applications related to new dispositions on public land while providing flexibility for responsible issuance of land use authorizations and licences of occupation.

  • Land authorizations require the approval of the Government of Yukon and must conform to the City of Whitehorse’s zoning and planning.

  • The prohibition of entry order under the Quartz Mining Act does not prevent existing claim holders from renewing their claims. Claim holders and Crown Grant owners in the area would need to comply with assessment, regulatory and permitting requirements to conduct any work on claims.

  • These protections align with the Government of Yukon’s commitment to support the process of creating McIntyre Creek Park.

Media contact 

Renée Francoeur
Cabinet Communications
867-334-9194
renee.francoeur@yukon.ca

 

Jake Wilson
Communications, Environment         
867-334-8390
jake.wilson@yukon.ca

 

Jesse Devost
Communications, Energy, Mines and Resources      
867-332-1177
jesse.devost@yukon.ca

News release #: 
23-117