Dinosaur Provincial Park
Country
Canada
Inscribed in
1979
Criteria
(vii)
(viii)
The conservation outlook for this site has been assessed as "good" in the latest assessment cycle. Explore the Conservation Outlook Assessment for the site below. You have the option to access the summary, or the detailed assessment.
In addition to its particularly beautiful scenery, Dinosaur Provincial Park – located at the heart of the province of Alberta's badlands – contains some of the most important fossil discoveries ever made from the 'Age of Reptiles', in particular about 35 species of dinosaur, dating back some 75 million years. © UNESCO
Summary
2025 Conservation Outlook
Finalised on
11 Oct 2025
Good
Current state and trend of VALUES
Good
Overall THREATS
Overall PROTECTION and MANAGEMENT
Full assessment
Description of values
Exceptional natural beauty
Criterion
(vii)
Stark ‘badlands’ landscape displaying natural beauty with outstanding examples of landforms produced by fluvial erosion in former glacial conditions, semi-arid steppes and riparian areas supporting attractive and diverse plant cover (UNEP-WCMC, 2012; IUCN, 1979; State Party of Canada, 1979, 2006, 2014).
Outstanding examples of the Earth’s palaeontological history and ongoing geological processes
Criterion
(viii)
A landscape of deeply eroded Cretaceous-age shales and sandstones dating from 75-77 million years ago when the climate was sub-tropical and lush forest covered a low, swampy coastal plain. The site is outstanding in the number and variety of high quality specimens representing every known group of Cretaceous dinosaurs. The diversity affords excellent opportunities for palaeontology that is both comparative and chronological. Fossil remains of more than 23,000 specimens and 300 skeletons from more than 40 distinct species of dinosaur have been found at the site (Brown et al., 2015). Due to its exposure of Cretaceous sediments, the site also provides an excellent opportunity to conduct associated research on other fossil remains including fish, turtles, marsupials and amphibians (UNEP-WCMC, 2012; World Heritage Committee, 1992; IUCN, 1979; State Party of Canada, 1979, 2006, 2014; Brown et al., 2013; Brinkman et al., 2015; World Heritage Committee, 2015).
Threatened Plains riparian cottonwood vegetation communities; rich avifauna
Diverse vegetation of high quality and in various successional stages ranging from pioneer willow stands to cottonwood forest, tall shrubs, ephemeral wetlands and sagebrush flats. These are critical winter habitat for native ungulates such as pronghorn, mule and white-tailed deer. The site includes some 24 kilometres of Plains cottonwood riparian vegetation communities, which are among the most threatened habitats in semi-arid regions. More than 150 species of birds are present, some of which are locally threatened or at their biogeographical limits, including golden eagle, prairie falcon and loggerhead shrike (UNEP-WCMC, 2012; IUCN, 1979; State Party of Canada, 1979, 2006, 2014).
Artefacts of historical and cultural value
Several archaeological sites representative of the native Plains Indian Culture have been found, including a Vision Quest site and tipi rings. A glyphstone, a rare native cultural artifact with carved figures found on now agricultural land, was moved to the Park for protection after consultation with the Siksika Nation (UNEP-WCMC, 2012; Parks Canada, 2004).
Assessment information
Current threats remain low. Although the most problematic threat to the site’s palaeontological values is from illegal removal of fossils, education, monitoring and enforcement generally provide adequate deterrents. Any increased level of visitation has the potential to become a more pronounced threat to the site’s natural beauty and the related social value of visitor experience. Gas exploration and development still occur on portions of the perimeter of the site and associated infrastructure has the potential to degrade the beauty of the site in those areas. Existing petroleum pipelines through property present potential of spill and presently cause erosion. There is further interest in oil and gas exploration and extraction directly adjacent to the property; although new surface access is not allowed, sub-surface extraction via directional drilling is possible.
Oil & Gas exploration/development
(Natural gas development)
Outside site
Gas exploration and development still occur on portions of the perimeter of the site and associated infrastructure has the potential to degrade the beauty of the site in those areas. Existing petroleum pipelines through property present potential of spill and presently cause erosion. There is further interest in oil and gas exploration and extraction directly adjacent to the property; although new surface access is not allowed, sub-surface extraction via directional drilling is possible (State Party of Canada, 2024). The development is subject to resource impact assessments, guidelines to minimise visual impact and ongoing monitoring, and the park agency is engaged in those reviews (UNEP-WCMC, 2012; Alberta Department of Tourism, Parks and Recreation, 2010; State Party of Canada, 2006; Wells and Benner, 2004).
Other Human Disturbances
(Illegal removal of fossils)
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
Outside site
Illegal removal and pilfering of fossils and vandalism of landforms remain a threat (State Party of Canada, 2024). Access to the restricted zone in the park is only permitted with a guide, which reduces the occurrences (UNEP-WCMC, 2012; Alberta Department of Tourism, Parks and Recreation, 2010; State Party of Canada, 2006).
Invasive Non-Native/ Alien Species
(Invasive species)
Invasive/problematic species
Rhaponticum repens
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
Outside site
Weed infestation occurs, but mainly in wetter areas and not in the ‘badlands’ terrain. A monitoring and control programme for invasive species is in place that addresses defined species since 2005. Management strategies were successful in reducing the total infested area of Russian knapweed and other targeted species. But several new species with the potential to become problematic in the area were identified and not all invasive species in the park have been recognised by the Agriculture Department of the government for removal, hence funding for their removal is a challenge (State Party of Canada, 2006; Wells and Benner, 2004; Ransom et al., 2012).
Recreational Activities
(Park development and tourism)
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
The appropriate level of park development within the park component of the site has been debated throughout the park’s existence: seeking a balance between protection of the site’s values and visitor use and experience. Visitation remains relatively stable at around 97,000 annually (State Party of Canada, 2024). All visitor services and facilities (campground, food services, visitor centre, exhibits), offices, research facilities, staff housing, etc are concentrated in the facility area, minimizing impacts to the site and resources. No unguided public access is allowed in the core area of the park (State Party of Canada, 2024). Potential
increases in visitation increase trail erosion, impacts vegetation and in-situ fossils. Indigenous rituals and gathering activities are a positive interaction with the park which increase awareness and support of the OUV (State Party of Canada, 2024).
increases in visitation increase trail erosion, impacts vegetation and in-situ fossils. Indigenous rituals and gathering activities are a positive interaction with the park which increase awareness and support of the OUV (State Party of Canada, 2024).
Potential threats are currently assessed as very low being mostly related to research impacts and grazing. Nevertheless, the current grazing management regime adequately mitigates any risk to the Outstanding Universal Value of the site. The potential impacts from climate change remain unclear. Storms and tornadoes can cause flooding that can damage roads and fossil beds. Increased temperatures and drought can affect water available to support riparian species.
Other Human Disturbances
(High Impact Research)
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
Research involving removal of in-situ specimens has the potential to alter the immediate environment.
Terrestrial Animal Farming, Ranching & Herding
(Domestic grazing)
Inside site
, Localised(<5%)
Outside site
Within the site, all pre-existing grazing rights, both inside and outside the park, are subject to regulation pursuant to lease agreements and are monitored on an ongoing basis. There are grazing dispositions within property that help to maintain grasslands, but if managed poorly can be detrimental to riparian habitats and the sensitive slopes in the coulee systems (State Party of Canada, 2024). Nevertheless, the current grazing management regime adequately mitigates any risk to the Outstanding Universal Value of the site (UNEP-WCMC, 2012; State Party of Canada, 1979; Wells and Benner, 2004).
Changes in Physical & Chemical Regimes, Changes in Temperature Regimes, Changes in Precipitation & Hydrological Regime
(Climate change)
Inside site
, Extent of threat not known
Storms and tornadoes can cause flooding that can damage roads and fossil beds. Increased temperatures and drought can affect water available to support riparian species (State Party of Canada, 2024). However to fully assess the potential impacts from climate change related factors monitoring data is required.
Involvement of stakeholders and rightsholders, including indigenous peoples and local communities, in decision-making processes
The Indigenous Stewardship Policy sets out a framework on how Parks Canada, including Dinosaur Provincial park, and Indigenous communities can work together on the management of protected areas (Parks Canada, 2024).
Personal relationships have been established with First Nations, ranchers and other landowners in areas both within and surrounding the site and many are directly engaged in assisting site managers with surveillance and monitoring (State Party of Canada, 1979, 2014; IUCN consultation, 2017a).
Personal relationships have been established with First Nations, ranchers and other landowners in areas both within and surrounding the site and many are directly engaged in assisting site managers with surveillance and monitoring (State Party of Canada, 1979, 2014; IUCN consultation, 2017a).
Legal framework
Overall, the site is subject to the Historical Resources Act, which prohibits the unauthorised excavation and collection of fossils. The majority of the site is further protected by designation and management as a provincial park under the Provincial Parks Act. Perimeter portions of the site outside the park are subject to land use policies of Special Area #2 under the Municipal Government Act. Special Area #2 is managed by a Board, which ensures notification on leases such as domestic grazing to ensure site protection. The Special Areas Board does not generally consider any land use other than grazing (UNEP-WCMC, 2012; State Party of Canada, 1979, 2006, 2014; IUCN consultation, 2017b).
Governance arrangements
The Park is managed by the Parks & Protected Areas Division of Alberta Community Development under the Provincial Parks Act. The World Heritage site area north of the Park is administered by the Special Areas Board for native grasslands; that to the south of the Park is owned and administered by the Eastern Irrigation District (UNEP-WCMC, 2012).
Integration into local, regional and national planning systems (including sea/landscape connectivity)
The administrative and management framework for the site is well developed between the provincial park management and the Special Area #2 municipal management (State Party of Canada, 2014; IUCN consultation, 2017). The Park falls into Land Use Framework Region of South Saskatchewan (Alberta Parks, 2022).
Staff responsible for the management of the site, both inside and outside the park, have participated in regional planning initiatives. As with most government agencies, closer cooperation between the conservation management agencies and the tourism promotion agencies would ensure a better level of site management (IUCN consultation, 2017).
Staff responsible for the management of the site, both inside and outside the park, have participated in regional planning initiatives. As with most government agencies, closer cooperation between the conservation management agencies and the tourism promotion agencies would ensure a better level of site management (IUCN consultation, 2017).
Boundaries
The current boundaries are sufficient to maintain the integrity of the property (State Party of Canada, 2006, 2014, 2024).
Overlapping international designations
N/A
Implementation of World Heritage Committee decisions and recommendations
Previous issues to do with boundary changes and the extent of the site have been the subject of Committee recommendations, all of which have been addressed (World Heritage Committee, 1991, 1992). No Committee decisions have been made since.
Climate action
The management plan does not refer to any climate change mitigation measures, however the current updating process of the plan provides opportunity for future integration. Some use has been made of the World Heritage Policy for Climate Change which was used to inform the provincial "Protected Areas Management Effectiveness" (PAME) evaluation tool, which will be applied to the park as part of the the new management plan development (State Party of Canada, 2024).
Management plan and overall management system
The site benefitted from a ten-year management plan, developed with public input, for the provincial park component of the site and cooperative agreements with the Special Areas Board for the area outside the park. Annual operating plans are prepared and implemented in keeping with the management plan (State Party of Canada, 2014; IUCN consultation, 2017). Since the 2020 assessment, the renewed management plan is still under development (Alberta Parks, 2022) with no published outcome yet. Although the previous plan still functions it requires an update to reflect current issues and approaches. Continuity of site managers over the last decade has translated into an adequate management system being in place (State Party of Canada, 2024).
Law enforcement
There has been a reduction in Conservation Officer presence on site. Efforts are underway to increase compliance education in the park and to regionally increase the number of CO's. Protections under the Provincial Parks Act do not apply to subsurface resource rights under the park (some crown owned, some privately owned), and does not have any authority over freehold rights and cannot restrict surface access rights. Despite this, exploration has been restricted using other means and risk to OUV is low (State Party of Canada, 2024).
Sustainable finance
The government of Alberta funds 100% of operation. The available budget is acceptable but could be further improved to fully meet the management needs (State Party of Canada, 2024). Funding levels for staffing and support are adequate for the rest of the year. Previous studies recommended that the authorities seek to establish more business partnerships and identify additional sources of revenue (State Party of Canada, 1979, 2006). Visitation fees are collected, and make some contribution to the management of the World Heritage property (State Party of Canada, 2024).
Staff capacity, training and development
Staff are generally well qualified and training opportunities are readily available (State Party of Canada, 1979; UNEP-WCMC, 2012). Financial and human resources, though relatively stable and sufficient for basic operations, limits what can be accomplished in development and monitoring (State Party of Canada, 2024).
Education and interpretation programmes
Education and interpretation programmes are highly effective with a field office of the Royal Tyrell Museum at the site and an interpretation centre in the park devoted to the park’s natural and cultural history as well as its geological and palaeontological resources.
Tourism and visitation management
The park’s management plan and the Special Areas’ plans and policies address the site’s values and strive to ensure that management programmes, as well as external policies on tourism, are supportive. As noted, management of tourism and visitation in the park portion of the site is highly effective for the majority of the year. However, tourism promotion has resulted in increased visitation in July and August: at times, beyond the capacity of the site’s present infrastructure. This impact needs to be reviewed to consider its consistency and acceptability to ensure the site’s values are maintained. Environmental impact and facility design standards associated with Alberta provincial parks are implemented. Facilities to cater for tourists visiting the site are established at the entrance to the site.
Sustainable use
The permits authorising grazing and recreational guiding within the park portion of the site ensure that those uses do not impact the site’s values. Domestic grazing outside the park is also leased and controlled to limit the impact on the site’s values. Notations are placed on the lease that the lease falls within the World Heritage Site.
Monitoring
As with most parks, monitoring focuses on visitors; monitoring of resources occurs as a secondary priority, however there is no overarching system that coordinates monitoring activities. Monitoring outside the park is done primarily by lease holders. A plan is underway to develop and implement a formal monitoring system (State Party of Canada, 2024).
Research
High impact research in palaeontology, including extraction of fossils, increases the profile of the property in scientific circles and for tourism (State Party of Canada, 2024). Although research is conducted onsite by palaeontologists and biologists who may publish their research and who may make recommendations for conservation, there is no comprehensive approach directed towards conservation of the OUV (State Party of Canada, 2024).
Both domestic and international scientific effort remains strong in all relevant fields of research and there are excellent professional relationships with research institutes. Research results contribute to displays in the visitor centre and researchers assist site managers as eyes in the field. Fossils from the property are held in the collections of some 30 international institutions (UNEP-WCMC, 2012; State Party of Canada, 1979, 2014; Brown et al., 2013; Brinkman et al., 2015).
Both domestic and international scientific effort remains strong in all relevant fields of research and there are excellent professional relationships with research institutes. Research results contribute to displays in the visitor centre and researchers assist site managers as eyes in the field. Fossils from the property are held in the collections of some 30 international institutions (UNEP-WCMC, 2012; State Party of Canada, 1979, 2014; Brown et al., 2013; Brinkman et al., 2015).
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats outside the site
Outside threats are very low and primarily restricted to gas exploration. Staff are engaged to address visual quality objectives. Currently Alberta Parks are exploring the possibility to create a ministerial order to formalize the Paleontological Preserve (protection zone) and explore potential to reduce or buy-out mineral rights for oil and gas exploration (State Party of Canada, 2024).
Effectiveness of management system and governance in addressing threats inside the site
The site is effectively managed for the most part and addresses the majority of the threats occurring inside the Park. The main threat represented by the illegal removal of fossils is effectively addressed through education, awareness raising and guided tours, although the decrease in presence of a Conservation Officer in the field is of some concern. The lack of an updated Management Plan also represents an issue to be addressed as soon as possible.
Generally, the protection and management of the site are mostly effective. There is a strong legal, administrative and management framework. Overall, staffing and funding are adequate to meet current needs. However, the decreasing on-site presence of a Conservation Officer is of some concern. A renewal of the 10-year management plan is necessary and a review of tourism management at peak times would be beneficial to ensure values are maintained and that the site’s infrastructure provide adequate capacity. Relationships with local communities and key stakeholders are good. Research and environmental monitoring are of the first order, although an overarching monitoring strategy is needed and currently being developed.
Good practice examples
The park, in partnership with the Royal Tyrell Museum, has offered an opportunity for park visitors to learn about palaeontology research by participating in day and overnight dinosaur dig programmes for a fee. In addition, there is a high-level, online process to review, coordinate and manage research permits to ensure both resource protection and meaningful scientific contributions.
Exceptional natural beauty
Low Concern
Trend
Stable
The condition of scenic and aesthetic qualities of the site is of low concern. Gas exploration infrastructure at the perimeter of the site has the potential to degrade the natural beauty, but measures are in place to minimise visual impact (State Party of Canada, 2024). There is a need to address the increased visitation in the peak months.
Outstanding examples of the Earth’s palaeontological history and ongoing geological processes
Good
Trend
Stable
The park’s dinosaur fossils are widely recognised through continuing research and well protected by provincial legislation (State Party of Canada, 2024). As noted, there is a problem regarding the illegal removal and pilfering of fossils, however this appears effectively managed currently, although the decreasing presence of an on-site Conservation Officer is of some concern (State Party of Canada, 2024).
Assessment of the current state and trend of World Heritage values
Stable
Overall, the current state and condition of the Outstanding Universal Values and attributes of the site are good due to the existing legislation, management system and financial support.
Assessment of the current state and trend of other important biodiversity values
Low Concern
Data Deficient
Research studies are subject to permit conditions. Invasive species have been of growing concern, especially where they encroach on native communities of rare or threatened species. Most invasive species are confined to the wetter areas of the park, away from the ‘badlands’ terrain (Wells and Benner, 2004). A monitoring and control programme is in place, but funding for their removal is a challenge (State Party of Canada, 2006). No further information on the current status and spread of invasiv species and their impact on biodiversity values could be found.
Assessment of the current state and trend of other important values
Good
Stable
The state and condition of the artefacts of historical and cultural importance within the site do not seem to be threatened.
Additional information
Importance for research,
Contribution to education
The site is an internationally significant source of knowledge about the former ‘Age of the Dinosaurs’. Large numbers of scientists from national and international institutions have conducted research at the site and new fossil discoveries are ongoing as more material is exposed by erosion. Fossil specimens are held in the collections of some 30 international institutions and education locally is provided by programmes in the visitor centre.
Soil stabilisation,
Water provision (importance for water quantity and quality)
The site is important for conservation of soil and freshwater resources especially through the protection of unmodified semi-arid steppe vegetation cover.
Outdoor recreation and tourism,
Natural beauty and scenery
The park contributes to recreation and tourism at the local, national and international level.
Although park development and management due to recent tourism promotion is currently acceptable, a trend toward increased visitation may be occurring. This trend should be reviewed to ensure that it does not lead to park development that would negatively impact the site’s values.
The site is internationally important for protection, scientific research and curation of dinosaur fossil material dating from the Cretaceous period and contributes significantly to our understanding of the ‘Age of the Dinosaurs’, ranking among the world’s most important palaeontological sites. It also plays an important role in conservation of soil and water resources and biodiversity as a continental semi-arid steppe biome and provides opportunities for recreation and education.
Visitation contributes to the local economy.
Visitation contributes to the local economy.
| № | Organization | Brief description of Active Projects | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Royal Tyrell Museum | Continuing paleontology research |
https://tyrrellmuseum.com/research
|
| 2 | Dinosaur Research Institute | Continuing paleontology research |
https://dinosaurresearch.com/3%20Projects.htm
|
References
| № | References |
|---|---|
| 1 |
Alberta Department of Tourism, Parks and Recreation (2010). Dinosaur Provincial Park and Area Tourism Development Plan Study. Ontario and Alberta, Canada: IBI Group and Canadian Badlands Ltd.
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| 2 |
Alberta Parks (2022). ‘Parks Research and Management’. Dinosaur Provincial Park. [online] Available at: https://albertaparks.ca/parks/south/dinosaur-pp/park-resear… (Accessed 03 January 2025).
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| 3 |
Brinkman, D.B., Densmore, M., Rabi, M., Ryan, M.J. and Evans, D.C. (2015). Marine turtles from the Late Cretaceous of Alberta, Canada. Canadian Journal of Earth Science, 52, 581-589.
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| 4 |
Brown, C.M., Ryans, M.J. and Evans, D.C. (2015). A census of Canadian dinosaurs: more than a century of discovery. [online] Oldenburg. Available at: https://www.academia.edu/24570644/A_Census_of_Canadian_Dino… (Accessed 20 April 2020).
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| 5 |
Brown, S.A.E., Collinson, M.E. and Scott, A.C. (2013). Did fire play a role in formation of dinosaur-rich deposits? An example from the Late Cretaceous of Canada. Palaeobiodiversity and Palaeoenvironments, 93(3), pp. 317–326. [online] Available at: http://www.researchgate.net/publication/271951409 (Accessed: 18 February 2019).
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| 6 |
IUCN (1979). World Heritage Nomination – IUCN Evaluation, Dinosaur Provincial Park (Canada). [online] Available at: http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/71/documents/ (Accessed: 18 February 2019).
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| 7 |
IUCN consultation (2017a). IUCN World Heritage Confidential Consultation Form: Dinosaur Provincial Park, Canada.
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| 8 |
IUCN consultation (2017b). IUCN World Heritage Confidential Consultation Form: Dinosaur Provincial Park, Canada.
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| 9 |
Parks Canada (2004). Periodic Report on the Application of the World Heritage Convention. Section II. Report on the State of Conservation of Dinosaur Provincial Park. Parks Canada, Gatineau, Quebec.
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| 10 |
Parks Canada (2024). Indigenous Stewardship Policy. [online]. Available at: https://parks.canada.ca/agence-agency/aa-ia/politique-policy [Accessed on 02 January 2025]
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| 11 |
Ransom, C. V., Christensen, S. D., Edvarchuk, K. A., Naumann, T (2012). A Reinventory of Invasive Weed Species in Dinosaur National Monument to Determine Management Effectiveness. Invasive Plant Science and Management. 2012;5(2):300-309. doi:10.1614/IPSM-D-11-00041.1
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| 12 |
State Party of Canada (1979). Nomination for the World Heritage List of Canadian Natural Site Dinosaur Provincial Park.
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| 13 |
State Party of Canada (2006). Periodic Report First Cycle: Dinosaur Provincial Park. [online] Paris, France: UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/71/documents/ (Accessed 1 December 2020).
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| 14 |
State Party of Canada (2014). Periodic Report Second Cycle Section II: Dinosaur Provincial Park. [online] Paris, France: UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/document/164074 (Accessed: 18 February 2019).
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| 15 |
State Party of Canada (2024). Periodic Reporting Cycle 3, Section II: Dinosaur Provincial Park. Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/71/documents/
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| 16 |
UNEP-WCMC (2012). Dinosaur Provincial Park. UNEP-WCMC World Heritage Information Sheets. [online] Cambridge, UK: UNEP-WCMC. Available at: https://www.unep-wcmc.org/resources-and-data/world-heritage… (Accessed: 18 February 2019).
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| 17 |
Wells and Benner (2004). Pilot inventory of invasive plant species in Dinosaur Provincial Park. [online] Alberta Sustainable Resource Development Publication. Available at: https://open.alberta.ca/publications/3675210 (Accessed: 18 February 2019).
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| 18 |
World Heritage Committee (1991). Decision 15 COM VIII. Dinosaur Provincial Park (Canada). [online] Available at: http://whc.unesco.org/en/decisions/3489 (Accessed: 18 February 2019).
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| 19 |
World Heritage Committee (1992). Decision 16 COM VIII.12. Dinosaur Provincial Park (Canada). [online] Available at: http://whc.unesco.org/en/decisions/3408 (Accessed: 18 February 2019).
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| 20 |
World Heritage Committee (2015). Decision 39 COM 8.E. Dinosaur Provincial Park (Canada)- Adoption of Retrospective Statements of Outstanding Universal Value. [online] Paris, France: UNESCO. Available at: https://whc.unesco.org/en/decisions/6407 (Accessed 18 February 2019).
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