The Honourable Clyde Jackman, Minister of Environment and Conservation, today announced that seven provincial parks will open on Wednesday, May 16, and the remaining parks are scheduled to open at later dates.

"The provincial parks throughout Newfoundland and Labrador provide a high-quality outdoor experience for residents and visitors," said the minister. "This government is committed to a strong provincial parks system. In Budget 2007, government increased its investment in the parks by $1 million, bringing the total investment to $4 million."

"As well, I am pleased to inform the public that this season interpretive staff will be located at the Portugal Cove South Interpretation Centre to assist visitors, provide information and offer tours to Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve, a fossil site of international significance located right in our own backyard," said Minister Jackman.

The provincial parks, and the designated number of campsites, scheduled to open on May 16 include: Barachois Pond (150); Butter Pot (149); Frenchman's Cove (76); La Manche (70); Lockston Path (57); Notre Dame (100); and J.T. Cheeseman (92).

The minister noted that the new online parks reservation system introduced by the Parks Division this year has been well received and widely used by the public. The new system allows residents and visitors to make reservations and confirm campsite availability by booking online at www.NLcamping.ca or by calling toll-free 1-877-214-CAMP (2267).

Each park has its own list of rules and regulations, which park patrons are encouraged to observe as they will be strictly enforced by parks staff throughout the summer camping season.

"An alcohol ban will be in place at Notre Dame Provincial Park for the Victoria Day weekend and all weekends until the end of June, and a ban is also in effect at Barachois Pond Provincial Park for the Victoria Day weekend only," said the minister. "I am very pleased with the past success of these alcohol bans and the positive response received from our patrons."

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. Visitors can explore and appreciate nature through the provincial parks and reserves and enjoy many outdoor recreational opportunities, such as camping, hiking and canoeing.

"Our province has an array of scenic attractions and natural wonders to explore," said the minister. "I invite the public to take time to visit our provincial parks and reserves, and have a safe and enjoyable experience."

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.

- 30 -

Media contact:
Diane Hart
Director of Communications
Department of Environment and Conservation
709-729-2575, 685-4401
dianehart@gov.nl.ca

NOTE: These dates are subject to change depending on weather and snow conditions at the time of opening.

2007 05 14                                                 10:30 a.m.