A volunteer group will receive funding for a feasibility study to build an education and visitor�s centre in Manuels River Linear Park. The Manuels River Natural Heritage Society, in partnership with the Town of Conception Bay South, will receive $5,350 from the Provincial Government�s Regional/Sectoral Diversification Fund.

"This contribution is directed towards determining the potential of an economic development initiative of the heritage society," said the Honourable Trevor Taylor, Minister of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development. "The Provincial Government is committed to partnering with community groups to fund projects that help stimulate community growth."

The centre will focus on resource conservation and environmental stewardship, along with interpretation of the park�s natural and cultural history. It will additionally provide learning experiences for students and visitors.

"We envision a centre with rooms for general exhibits and for seated presentations together with a multi-purpose assembly space for meetings," said Karen Spencer, projects co-ordinator, Conception Bay South Parks Commission. "One of our aims will be to attract secondary and post-secondary school groups. We will also offer private enterprise space including a gift shop and a caf� in order to ensure financial viability."

The Regional/Sectoral Diversification Fund is a $5 million fund of the Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development and a component of the province�s Comprehensive Regional Diversification Strategy. The fund provides non-repayable contributions to economic development agencies for initiatives that address regional and sectoral development and diversification.

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Media contact:
Scott Barfoot
Director of Communications
Department of Innovation, Trade and Rural Development
709-729-4570, 690-6290