YORK FACTORY NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE OF CANADA ...

Natural resource management is a significant consideration at York Factory for two
reasons. First, the functions and dynamic processes of the river, permafrost, surface
and ground water drainage, and vegetation encroachment affect the condition of the
site’s cultural resources. We know little of these processes and how they are
affecting the commemorative integrity of York Factory. Second, the recorded history
of York Factory could make it a particularly valuable place for the study of
geological and ecological processes in relation to climate over an extended period.
2.5 Relations
Parks Canada and the Silver Goose Lodge, owned by the York Factory First Nation,
have cooperated in their efforts to maintain an area suitable for landing aircraft on
Hay Island and to provide boat access from the island to the north shore where the
site and lodge are located. Parks Canada refers visitors enquiring about overnight
accommodation to the lodge, since the site offers no visitor accommodations. The
site and lodge cooperate in waste management practices as part of the polar bear
management and visitor safety program.
Parks Canada has worked with elders of York Factory First Nation in the care and
maintenance of the cemetery.
Notable opportunities to build relationships important to the commemorative
integrity and visitor experience, include:
• partnering with First Nations communities to maintain the cemetery (there is
a need to further discuss in the communities);
• improving coordination between Parks Canada, the Silver Goose Lodge and
tour operators and outfitters, in the visitor service offer;
• cooperating with First Nations communities to hold events such as
gatherings that build support and stewardship for the site;
• promoting York Factory as a base for multi-disciplinary research involving
the uniqueness of York Factory’s history and environment; and
• harmonizing the management plan for York Factory NHSC with the
Canadian Heritage River management plan goals and intent for the Hayes
River.
2.6 Administration and Operations
Parks Canada administers York Factory under authority of the Historic Sites and
Monuments Act (1985). The Manitoba Field Unit manages the site from its
administrative office in Churchill, which also has responsibilities for Prince of Wales
Fort NHSC and Wapusk National Park of Canada. York Factory NHSC is a seasonal
operation; open seven days a week from June to mid-September. Two seasonal
employees provide visitor services, guided tours, maintenance and security during
the operational season.
York Factory NHSC Management Plan Page 19