Salmonier Nature Park celebrates 25 years

Tourism, Culture and Recreation Minister Julie Bettney is pleased to extend an invitation to the general public on the occasion of the 25^th Anniversary Celebration of the opening of Salmonier Nature Park. On Saturday, June 28, park staff will be joined by children�s entertainer Terry Reilly, ice sculptor Steve Watson and officials from the Department of Tourism, Culture and Recreation, to commemorate this momentous occasion.

Salmonier Nature Park first opened its gates to the public in 1978. Since that time, it has served as a provincial center for environmental education and wildlife rehabilitation and is also a major tourist destination in our province. Its 2.7 kilometre boardwalk trail invites some 40,000 visitors annually to take a stroll and view the many native species of wildlife up close, while enjoying a unique interpretive experience along the way.

"The Salmonier Nature Park began as a vision more than 25 years ago," said Minister Bettney. "The dedication, hard work and support of innumerable Newfoundlanders and Labradorians have helped achieve that vision. Today, its beauty and peaceful atmosphere are well and widely known. But it is more than merely ornamental. It works incredibly hard for us: it teaches us, it protects our wildlife and it delights us. I thank all those, past and present, who have helped realize this remarkable vision over the span of 25 years."

The minister encourages everyone who can visit Salmonier Nature Park on June 28 to do so, to enjoy its striking beauty and celebrate its 25^th Anniversary with the many staff, volunteers and supporters who have helped make the park�s story such a successful one.

Media contact: Deirdre Robinson Greene, Communications, (709) 729-0084

2003 06 27                                        2:30 p.m.