Cross Lake Provincial Park
Cross Lake Provincial Park is a protected area located in Manitoba, Canada. It is situated on the eastern shore of Cross Lake, which is part of the Nelson River watershed. The park is open to the public and offers a variety of recreational activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and boating.
Location of Cross Lake Provincial Park
Cross Lake Provincial Park is located in Manitoba, Canada. It is about 530 kilometers north of Winnipeg, the provincial capital, and can be accessed via Highway 6. The park is situated on the eastern shore of Cross Lake, which is approximately 80 kilometers long and 20 kilometers wide.
Understanding the Land Area of a Park
The land area of a park refers to the total amount of land that is within the boundaries of the park. This includes any natural features such as lakes, rivers, and forests, as well as any man-made structures such as buildings, roads, and campsites. The land area of a park is important because it helps to determine the park’s capacity for visitors and the amount of space available for recreational activities.
The Total Land Area of Cross Lake Park
The total land area occupied by Cross Lake Provincial Park is approximately 22,000 hectares. This includes the park’s shoreline along Cross Lake, as well as the surrounding forests, wetlands, and meadows. The park is characterized by its rugged terrain and diverse wildlife, including black bears, moose, and bald eagles.
Calculating the Land Area of the Park
The land area of Cross Lake Provincial Park was calculated using Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, which allows for the precise measurement and analysis of geographic data. The park’s boundary was first established using aerial photography and ground surveys, and then the area within the boundary was calculated using GIS software.
The Importance of Land Area in Parks
The land area of a park is an important factor in managing and preserving the natural and cultural resources of the park. It helps to determine the carrying capacity of the park, which is the maximum number of visitors that can be accommodated without causing damage to the environment. The land area also plays a role in protecting the park from encroaching development and ensuring that it remains a natural and recreational resource for future generations.
Features of the Cross Lake Provincial Park
Cross Lake Provincial Park features a variety of natural and cultural attractions. These include hiking trails, fishing spots, and campsites, as well as historic sites such as the remains of a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including beavers, otters, and loons.
Managing the Land Area of a Park
The land area of a park is managed by park staff, who work to preserve the natural and cultural resources of the park while also ensuring that it remains accessible and enjoyable for visitors. This includes monitoring visitor use, maintaining trails and facilities, and enforcing park regulations.
The Significance of the Park’s Land Area
The land area of Cross Lake Provincial Park is significant because it represents a unique and valuable natural and cultural resource. The park’s rugged terrain and diverse wildlife make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, while its historic sites offer a glimpse into the region’s past.
Preservation of Cross Lake Provincial Park
The preservation of Cross Lake Provincial Park is important for both environmental and cultural reasons. The park’s natural resources, including its forests, wetlands, and lakes, provide habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, and also help to maintain water quality in the surrounding area. The park’s cultural resources, including its historic sites, offer a connection to the region’s past and contribute to the overall heritage of the province.
Conclusion: The Total Land Area of Cross Lake Park
The total land area occupied by Cross Lake Provincial Park is approximately 22,000 hectares. This includes the park’s shoreline along Cross Lake, as well as the surrounding forests, wetlands, and meadows. The park is an important natural and cultural resource, and its land area is managed and preserved by park staff to ensure that it remains a recreational and educational resource for future generations.
References and Further Reading
- Manitoba Sustainable Development. (n.d.). Cross Lake Provincial Park. Retrieved from
- Parks Canada. (2017). Measuring the Area of National Parks and Other Protected Areas. Retrieved from
- Province of Manitoba. (2009). Manitoba’s Protected Areas Strategy. Retrieved from
