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NLIS 8 May 12, 2005 (Environment and Conservation) Provincial parks to open for 2005 season Tom Osborne, Minister of Environment and Conservation, announced today the opening of seven provincial parks on Wednesday, May 18 for the 2005 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 (137); Frenchman' s Cove (76); La Manche (69); Notre Dame (100); Lockston Path (55); and J.T. Cheeseman (102) "Our system of provincial parks and wilderness and ecological reserves give visitors the opportunity to take part in nature experiences, interpretation programs, hiking, camping and a variety of outdoor adventure pursuits," said Minister Osborne. "I invite everyone to spend time this summer exploring our province' s provincial parks and reserves. Government is committed to ensuring a high quality and safe outdoor experience for residents and non-residents, while also protecting ecosystems and significant features in our parks." In an effort to ensure safe and enjoyable camping experience, the minister encouraged all users to follow park regulations that will be strictly enforced throughout the summer camping season. Minister Osborne added that the alcohol ban that was implemented in Notre Dame Provincial Park for the beginning of the 2004 camping season will be put in place again this year. "The alcohol ban will be in place for the Victoria Day weekend and all weekends until the end of June," said the minister. "We are very pleased with the success of the alcohol ban last year, which was implemented to address excessive drinking by young people. The alcohol ban was well received by park patrons." Minister Osborne also noted that a new comfort station and dumping station will be constructed at La Manche Provincial Park this year as a result of $250,000 committed in Budget 2005. The minister said the investment is part of an ongoing effort to improve the level of services available throughout the parks system. "Government acknowledges the value of our provincial parks system and will continue to upgrade our parks on an annual and priority basis," he added. The minister also pointed out that Route 422 through Cormack, the main access road to Sir Richard Squires Memorial Park, has been upgraded to a class A standard. "This road was in such poor condition over the last few years that it discouraged visitors to the park. Now, visitors will experience a comfortable drive to enjoy camping and salmon fishing in season," said the minister. The province' s parks and natural areas system includes 14 camping parks, six natural scenic attraction parks, the T' Railway and 11 park reserves for a total of 32 provincial parks. Each of these parks protect the significant features of the area in which they are located and the ecosystems, while also providing outstanding outdoor recreational opportunities, such as camping, hiking and canoeing. Of the 14 camping parks, six have interpretation programs. "Whether you visit our parks and reserves for a day or an extended vacation our excellent facilities and programs, together with outstanding natural surroundings and friendly staff, will help you celebrate our natural heritage," added Minister Osborne. "I encourage everyone to take the time this summer to explore our provincial parks and natural areas." Further information about provincial parks and reserves may be obtained by calling the Parks and Natural Areas Division at (709) 635- 4520 or at www.gov.nl.ca/parks Media contact: Tina Coffey, Communications (709) 729-57832005 OPENING AND CLOSING DATES
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