Parks Canada , also known as the Parks Canada Agency , is an agency of the
Government of Canada run by the
Minister of the Environment, who mandates it to protect and present nationally significant
natural and
cultural heritage, and foster public understanding, appreciation, and enjoyment in ways that ensure their ecological and integrity for present and future generations. Parks Canada manages 46
National Parks, four
National Marine Conservation Areas, 168
National Historic Sites, and one
National Landmark. The agency also administers lands and waters set aside as potential national parklands, including eight National Park Reserves and one National Marine Conservation Area Reserve. The
Canadian Register of Historic Places is supported and managed by Parks Canada, in collaboration with provincial and territorial governments and other federal bodies.