Parks Canada originated from the need to manage and protect the natural beauty and biodiversity of Canada as the country expanded and urbanized. The creation of the Dominion Parks Branch marked a pivotal moment in the establishment of organized efforts to conserve national landscapes. The initiative gained traction in the early 20th century, coinciding with a broader global movement toward conservation and the establishment of national parks and protected areas. Canada's first national park, Banff National Park, had been created in 1885, and subsequent parks began to emerge, necessitating a formalized approach to their oversight and management.

The Dominion Parks Branch was established with a vision of creating a network of protected areas that would allow future generations to experience and appreciate the unique natural landscapes across the country. The branch was responsible for the administration of existing parks and the development of new ones, ensuring that both local and international visitors could enjoy the scenery and wildlife of Canada's vast regions. The establishment of this branch not only laid the groundwork for what would eventually become Parks Canada, but it also represented a growing commitment to environmental conservation within the federal government.

The effects of establishing a dedicated national park service were far-reaching. It catalyzed the development of Canada's later national park policies, which emphasized the importance of preserving natural and cultural heritage. The establishment of the Dominion Parks Branch also coincided with the early political atmosphere of Canada, which was increasingly focused on national identity and acknowledgment of the country's natural resources. As such, this event marked a foundational step towards recognizing and institutionalizing the protection of Canada’s natural environment.