Provincial parks and ecological reserves to close for the 2004 season

Tom Osborne, Minister of Environment and Conservation, announced today the seasonal closure of the provincial parks in Newfoundland and Labrador. The provincial parks reservations line, scenic attraction parks and camping are closed for the season. However, Cape St. Mary�s Ecological Reserve and Interpretation Centre and Burnt Cape Ecological Reserve are open to the public for guided tours until October 13. Minister Osborne noted the Northern Gannet seabirds showed an increase this year and are still nesting at Cape St. Mary�s.

Butter Pot, Lockston Path, Notre Dame, J.T. Cheeseman, and Pistolet Bay provincial parks, along with Burnt Cape and Cape St. Mary�s ecological reserves, will be conducting Natures Classroom school educational programs until October 13. "I am happy to note that schools and educators are taking full advantage of this program," said Minister Osborne.

"As the summer camping season comes to an end, I hope our visitors look back at an enjoyable time spent in our provincial parks and wilderness and ecological reserves," said Minister Osborne. "I hope that everyone who visited our parks and reserves had an enjoyable natural heritage experience."

The provincial parks and natural areas include 14 camping parks, six natural scenic attraction parks, the T�Railway and 11 park reserves for a total of 32 provincial parks and 19 wilderness and ecological reserves. "Each of these parks and reserves protects the significant features of the area in which they are located," said Minister Osborne. "Our provincial parks also protect ecosystems, habitats and wildlife, while providing outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities such as camping, hiking and canoeing."

Notre Dame and Butter Pot provincial parks will be open for winter skiing, winter camping (Butter Pot only) and camper storage again this season.

"Even though most of the parks are closed for the season, I encourage everyone to continue to enjoy our parks. Activities such as hiking, walking, nature photography, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are welcome," said Minister Osborne.

Further information about provincial parks and reserves may be obtained by telephoning the Parks and Natural Areas Division at (709) 635- 4520, or visit our Web site at www.gov.nl.ca/parks&reserves/

Media contact: Tina Coffey, Communications, (709) 729-5783

2004 10 01                  9:20 a.m.