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Environment and Conservation September 17, 2008 Increased Use of Parks Reservation System in 2008 Camping Season The online reservation system service for provincial parks and reserves processed more than 8,400 reservations for the 2008 camping season. This represents an increase of nine per cent over the 2007 season. "We are pleased with the operation of the provincial parks campsite reservation service as a whole, and it has been well-received by the travelling public," said the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Environment and Conservation. "We made several changes to the system in the spring to enhance service for the 2008 season, and these changes have evidently benefited our camping patrons who availed of the service." Minister Johnson also said that park users are benefiting from the service upgrades that have resulted from the provincial parks renewal program announced in 2007. "All provincial camping parks are now equipped with modern comfort stations, including hot and cold running water, showers and flush toilet facilities," said Minister Johnson. "This is part of an ongoing capital investment of $4 million over four years by the Provincial Government to enhance the camping experience, and we will continue to make improvements to raise the level of service to the public." The majority of provincial parks have now closed for the 2008 camping season. These are: Sir Richard Squires, Blow Me Down, Barachois Pond, Butter Pot, Dildo Run, Frenchman�s Cove, J.T. Cheeseman, La Manche, Notre Dame, Sandbanks, Pinware River and Pistolet Bay. The natural scenic attractions � the Arches, Cataracts, Codroy Valley, Dungeon, Deadman�s Bay, and Gooseberry Cove � are also closed for the season. Chance Cove Provincial Park will close September 30."While many of our provincial parks and reserves have closed for the season, I encourage residents to explore our natural areas during the fall," said Minister Johnson. "Protected areas offer some of the best viewing opportunities for the fall colours and witnessing wildlife in the quiet surroundings of these special places." As part of a pilot project to extend the fall tourism season on the Bonavista Peninsula, Lockston Path Provincial Park will remain open to camping until October 13. Persons who wish to camp at Lockston Path during the season extension can call the park directly at 709-464-3553. Mistaken Point, Burnt Cape and Cape St. Mary�s ecological reserves will remain open to the public until October 5. The Bay du Nord and Avalon wilderness reserves, while open all year long, do require entry permits for visitors to these areas. Newfoundland and Labrador�s system of provincial parks and natural areas consists of 14 camping parks, six natural scenic attractions, the T�Railway Provincial Park, and 11 parks reserves, for a total of 32 provincial parks. There are two wilderness reserves and 17 ecological reserves. These areas protect significant natural features of the province while providing recreational opportunities as well. For more information about provincial parks, ecological reserves or entry permits, please call 709-635-4520 or visit the Provincial Government website at www.gov.nl.ca/parks. - 30 - Media contact: 2008 09 17 10:30 a.m.
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