April 30, 1999
(Tourism, Culture and Recreation)

Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve opens for the season

Charles Furey, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, today announced that the Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve, located five kilometres east of the community of St. Bride's, on the southwestern tip of the Avalon Peninsula, will open for the 1999 season on Saturday, May 1.

"In addition to having spectacular views and ease of access, Attractions Canada has recognized this reserve as the most unique outdoor site in Newfoundland and Labrador for 1999. It is one of the most spectacular and accessible seabird colonies in North America in which to experience unspoiled nature in a way that will never be forgotten," said Furey.

No fee is charged to enter the reserve, access the centre's washrooms or Nature Store. Reserve users are reminded, however, that a fee is charged to enter the exhibit area of the reserve's interpretation centre. The fees to enter the interpretation centre have not increased from 1998. The per day fees are Adult $3, Youth $1 and Families $7, while the seasonal fees will be Adult $10 and Youth $4. During the month of May, an early bird seasonal permit can be purchased at the reduced rate of Adult $5 and Youth $2.

In addition, a fee structure is being instituted for groups who wish to participate in a guided interpretative tour of the reserve. This fee, $5 per person for a 1.5 hour guided group interpretative tour or $100 per group for a full-day extended interpretative hike or educational workshop, includes the entrance fee to the interpretation centre's exhibit area.

Minister Furey noted: "As an indication of the local commitment to the site, the Friends of Cape St. Mary's Ecological Reserve has been formed. This is the first such group to be established in any provincial park or reserve and was formed in consultation with the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation."

In partnership with the department and the community, the group has been mandated to protect and enhance the cape and assist its programs. Those wishing additional information concerning the Friends should contact Edna White, by telephone at (709) 337-2400.

The Attractions Canada Awards Program mentioned above was established to recognize and highlight the special characteristics of Canada's many attractions, many of which are not well-known by Canadians.

Media contact: Tara Laing, Communications, (709) 729-0928.

1999 04 30 11:10 a.m.