The implementation of the Provincial Government�s four-year, $4-million Parks Renewal Strategy is resulting in improved amenities and services for campers.

"The camping public are looking for more amenities and services than were traditionally provided, and we are constantly making improvements to accommodate the patrons of our provincial parks," said the Honourable Clyde Jackman, Acting Minister of Environment and Conservation. "I am pleased that, as part of our strategy to improve our parks system, we are continuing with upgrades which will help ensure a positive experience for everyone who visits these sites."

A contract for $386,000 has been awarded to provide electricity to campsites in several provincial parks � 27 in La Manche, 36 in Notre Dame and 21 in Dildo Run. A tender has also been called for electrical amenities for campsites in Frenchman�s Cove, J. T. Cheeseman and Sandbanks at an estimated cost of $450,000. The actual number of campsites which will receive electricity in each of these parks will be determined through the tendering process.

The minister also noted that all provincial camping parks are now equipped with modern comfort stations, including hot and cold running water, showers and flush toilet facilities.

"As I have travelled throughout the province, many people have expressed their level of satisfaction at having the modern amenities such as comfort stations, showers, and the like, which are now present in all of our provincial camping parks," said Minister Jackman. "It is our goal to provide outdoor enthusiasts with a product that meets their needs, while allowing them to explore and enjoy our natural heritage."

In Budget 2007, the Provincial Government increased its investment in the provincial parks system by $1 million and expanded the Parks Renewal Strategy from a three-year commitment to a four-year, $4-million initiative. The strategy focuses on service improvements to make parks more attractive, encourage increased usage, and provide a range of services and amenities for the modern traveller.

The province's parks and natural areas system includes 13 camping parks, one day-use park, six natural scenic attraction parks, the T'Railway and 11 park reserves, for a total of 32 provincial parks. Along with the provincial parks, there are currently two wilderness reserves and 17 ecological reserves.

For more information on provincial parks, go to www.gov.nl.ca/parks

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Media contact
Melony O�Neill
Director of Communications
Department of Environment and Conservation
709-729-2575, 689-0928
moneill@gov.nl.ca