Provincial parks to close after successful season

Julie Bettney, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, announced today the 2002 camping season was extremely successful at all provincial parks. In 2002, a total of 50,511 nights were registered, an increase of 7,197, or approximately 17 per cent from 2001.

"I am very pleased that so many tourists and residents came out to enjoy the services provided at our provincial parks this season," said Minister Bettney. "Our natural areas are some of the most beautiful in the country and these numbers reflect people are becoming more interested in enjoying the natural beauty and the many activities provided at our parks."

The majority of the province�s parks close for camping today, September 16. Six natural scenic attraction parks and two provincial parks, Blow Me Down and Sir Richard Squires Memorial parks, had previously closed for camping on September 3. Chance Cove will remain open to campers until October 7, 2002 and Cape St. Mary�s Ecological Reserve will remain open to visitors until October 13, 2002. Non-motorized access will continue to be permitted in all parks after the closing dates.

"I encourage everyone to continue to visit our parks to enjoy many outdoor activities such as hiking, bicycling on park roads, bird watching, nature photography or simply to observe the colourful scenery as the seasons change," said Minister Bettney. "Also during the winter at Butter Pot and Notre Dame parks, groomed cross country ski trails and winter camping will be available for those who love the outdoors during the winter months."

Media contact: Carmel Turpin, Communications, (709) 729-0928

2002 09 16                                      12:25