With a new school year in progress, provincial parks staff are gearing up for another successful year as primary and elementary schools sign up for the Nature�s Classroom program.

"Through hands-on learning, the Parks as Nature�s Classroom program allows children to explore the natural wonders of our province and teaches them about various plants and animals and the environment," said the Honourable Charlene Johnson, Minister of Environment and Conservation. "In the fall each year, our parks and ecological reserves become outdoor classrooms for school children across the province."

The program is being offered at no cost from September 16 - October 21 to students from grades one to six.

Developed co-operatively with the Department of Education, the Parks as Nature�s Classroom program is an environmental education program designed to give teachers and students an opportunity to learn in an outdoor setting. Under the guidance of a park interpreter, the natural environment and natural processes are explored by students.

"Parks as Nature�s Classroom is a value-added program to the province�s traditional school curriculum," said the Honourable Darin King, Minister of Education. "This unique learning opportunity of applying classroom lessons in an outdoor environment is available because our government recognizes the many benefits of such an educational and engaging program for both students and teachers."

With a high demand for the program, schools are encouraged to book their visits early.

"I would like to extend an invitation to all primary and elementary schools to take part in this program again this year," said Minister Johnson. "This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about nature by exploring the outdoors in our parks and ecological reserves. By teaching children about conservation and protection, we know our environment will be in good hands in the future."

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The following parks and reserves are offering the Parks as Nature�s Classroom program: