Minister encourages public to celebrate 50^th anniversary of our provincial parks

Environment and Conservation Minister Tom Osborne today encouraged residents and tourists to visit our provincial parks and help celebrate the 50^th anniversary of our parks in the province. A number of activities are taking place throughout the parks system during August in celebration of its 50^th anniversary.

"I encourage everyone to visit our beautiful parks and reserves and join with us as we salute our natural heritage," said Minister Osborne. "There are special 50^th anniversary activities taking place at our parks this month. I invite everyone to take some time to explore our parks and natural areas as we celebrate this golden year."

The variety of anniversary activities taking place at provincial parks are for the young and old alike, including camp fires, nature tours and enviro-games.

A kick-off of the 50^th anniversary celebrations took place on August 7 at Sir Richard Squires Memorial Park, which was the first provincial park established in Newfoundland and Labrador in 1954. Today, the provincial parks system includes 14 camping parks, six natural scenic attractions, the T�Railway and 11 park reserves.

Meanwhile, Minister Osborne said statistics show a successful camping season at our provincial parks to date. To the end of July, the overall number of camping nights has increased by 969 nights compared to the same time last year.

"I am very pleased with the success of our camping season so far this year and wish all park users a pleasurable experience for the remainder of the season," said the minister. "We are indeed proud of our provincial parks, each with its unique features, outstanding recreational opportunities and a spectacular natural environment that is second to none."

The public are reminded that all provincial parks are open until September 13 at which time seven parks are scheduled to close. The remaining provincial parks and reserves will close for the 2004 season on different dates in September and October. The Cape St. Mary�s Ecological Reserve is open to the public until October 13.

For more information on the provincial parks system�s 50^th anniversary celebrations or closing dates for specific parks and reserves, call (709) 635-4520.

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

2004 08 16                                                        12:10 p.m.