Provincial parks to open for 2004 season

The Minister of Environment and Conservation, Tom Osborne, announced today the opening of six provincial parks on Wednesday, May 19 for the 2004 summer camping season.

The remaining camping parks and scenic attraction parks will open later in the season.

The provincial parks scheduled to open and the number of designated campsites in each are: Barachois Pond (150); Butter Pot (126); Frenchman’s Cove (76); La Manche (69); Notre Dame (100); and Lockston Path (55).

"I invite everyone to explore our province’s provincial parks and reserves this season which offer unique nature experiences, hiking, camping and outdoor adventure pursuits," said the minister. "This year is the 50^th anniversary of the provincial parks system and I encourage everyone to help us celebrate our natural heritage this summer."

Minister Osborne added that the provincial parks system was started with the establishment of Sir Richard Squires Memorial Park in 1954. "As with many parks of the time, Sir Richard Squires Memorial Park was established to provide outstanding recreational opportunities for residents and non-residents alike," he said.

The provincial parks system today includes 32 provincial parks - 14 camping parks, six natural scenic attraction parks, the T’Railway and 11 park reserves. Each of these parks protects the significant features of the area in which they are located and protects ecosystems, while also providing outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities such as camping, hiking and canoeing. Of the 14 camping parks, six have interpretation programs.

"Some notable accomplishments in our provincial parks system over the last few years include the additions of new comfort stations at Frenchman’s Cove and J.T. Cheeseman Provincial Parks, the addition of a new camping loop at Lockston Path Provincial Park and the fall outdoor school educational program, Natures Classroom, in seven parks and one reserve,"said Minister Osborne.

The minister said that changes have been instituted to campsite availability at La Manche Provincial Park. Users of this park are advised that 45 campsites have been reserved for family groups wishing to spend a quiet and pleasurable weekend enjoying the natural environment, interpretation programs and services of the park. While all campsites are available on a first-come first-served basis, they will be assigned at the discretion of the park staff.

"In an effort to ensure a safe and enjoyable camping season, I encourage all residents and visitors to follow park regulations which will be strictly enforced," said Minister Osborne. "Also, keep in mind the importance of our environment and remember to respect park staff and fellow campers while staying at our provincial parks."

Information about provincial parks, fees and reservations is available by contacting the Parks and Natural Areas Division at (709) 635- 4520, or through their website at www.gov.nl.ca/parks&reserves/

Media contact: Sonia Glover, Communications, (709) 729-2575

2004 Opening and Closing Dates

Note: These dates may vary slightly depending upon weather and snow conditions at the time of opening.

2004 05 14                                       11:40 a.m.