The Natural Areas unit manages Natural Parks, including wetlands, for both habitat protection and park-user enjoyment. Compared to manicured parks, priority is given to the protection of vegetation and wildlife over human use when the two come into conflict.
Natural Parks are mainly comprised of native animal (fauna) and plant (flora) life, or are in the process of naturalization. These parks play an important role in protecting Calgary's wildlife by providing habitat for resident and migratory animals.
There are more than 693 natural areas which make up over 50.6% of the park space in Calgary or 3,931 hectares of land in total.
The Natural Area Management Plan, one of the first of its kind in Canada, provides guidelines under which Natural Parks are managed. Some specialized techniques for improving Natural Parks include erosion control, weed control, and planting native vegetation. Other park management issues include animal control, wildlife encounters, encroachments and vandalism.
Did You Know?...
Common encroachments include fire pits, mowed strips, unapproved plantings, compost bins, parked vehicles, bike park construction, and forts. Please read our Encroachment brochure 
(637 KB) for more information and tips - such as using a composter can help prevent weeds, pesticides and herbicides from being introduced to a Natural Park.
Classification of Natural Parks
The classification of a park as "Natural" designates the type and amount of maintenance used on each park. There are four classifications:
Special Protection: These areas are of the highest significance in terms of biodiversity and wildlife, and are given the highest level of protection and management. (e.g. Weaselhead Flats, Inglewood Bird Sanctuary, Griffith Woods)
Major: These are large, well-established parks that may not have the habitat quality or diversity of Special Protection Parks. (e.g. Nose Hill, Edworthy)
Supporting: These play a role as buffers, corridors, or are an extension of other parks. (e.g. Edgemont Ravines)
Parks with Natural Area Zones: A large regional park that has natural aspects associated with it. (e.g. Prince's Island Park)
