At least one conservation group in Alberta calls the provincial government's new 10-year parks plan ''pretty weak''.

The Alberta government says it wants input from residents on how to balance environmental protection for parks with the demand for more spaces in campgrounds and the demands of off-road enthusiasts.

Greg Belland, a spokesman for the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Association, is critical of the plan.

He says it's short on specifics and allows the provincial government to do anything it wants in provincial parks.

Belland says if more campgrounds are allowed, the document doesn't provide any specifics on where they might be allowed and what rules they must follow.

Parks Minister Cindy Ady says the document gives staff the necessary direction as they assess and make decisions on future park development.

Other goals in the plan include consulting more with aboriginals on park planning, upgrading park amenities and bringing in an online campground reservation system, which starts May 1st.

 

(The Canadian Press)